When a child support order is in place, parents expect those payments to arrive on time to support their child’s well-being. Unfortunately, not all parents comply with these legal obligations.

If you find yourself in this difficult situation, it’s essential to understand your rights and the steps you can take to enforce a child support order.

At Daniel Ogbeide Law, we understand how frustrating and overwhelming it can be when child support payments suddenly stop. Our team of experienced family lawyers in Houston, TX, is here to help you navigate the legal process and secure the support your child deserves.

In this article, we’ll walk you through effective enforcement options to ensure you can take action promptly.

Understanding Child Support Orders and Enforcement Options

When a court issues a child support order, it is legally binding. Non-custodial parents who fail to make payments can face serious consequences. The Texas Attorney General’s Child Support Division is responsible for enforcing these orders, but you can also take legal action to ensure compliance.

Here are some of the most common enforcement methods:

1. Wage Garnishment

One of the most effective ways to enforce a child support order is through wage garnishment. Courts can order an employer to withhold a portion of the non-custodial parent’s wages and direct those funds toward unpaid child support. This method ensures regular payments and can be arranged through the court or the Texas Attorney General’s office.

Wage garnishment is often the preferred option because it provides a steady stream of payments. However, if the non-custodial parent is unemployed, self-employed, or works under the table, this method may be less effective. In such cases, other enforcement options may be necessary.

2. Property Liens

If wage garnishment is unsuccessful, placing a lien on the non-paying parent’s property is another option. This legal claim against real estate or personal property can force payment by restricting the parent’s ability to sell or refinance assets. In Texas, a lien can be placed on various types of property, including houses, vehicles, and land.

While this process can be time-consuming, it serves as a powerful tool to pressure the non-paying parent into fulfilling their financial obligations. Consulting a knowledgeable family law attorney in Houston can help you navigate the complexities of property liens.

3. License Suspension

Non-custodial parents who fail to make child support payments may have their driver’s license, professional licenses, or even hunting and fishing licenses suspended. This approach is designed to motivate compliance by disrupting the parent’s everyday activities and making it difficult for them to maintain their livelihood.

In Texas, license suspension can be a strong motivator for compliance, especially if the individual relies on their license for employment. However, this method may not result in immediate payment, making it essential to explore additional enforcement measures if necessary.

4. Tax Refund Interception

Federal and state tax refunds can be intercepted to cover unpaid child support. This enforcement tool is particularly useful when other methods fail to produce results. By redirecting tax refunds, you can recover a significant portion of unpaid child support without extensive legal proceedings.

While effective, this approach only works once per year and may not provide a consistent solution for ongoing non-payment. It’s best used in combination with other enforcement methods.

5. Contempt of Court

When a parent repeatedly refuses to comply with a child support order, the court can find them in contempt. This may result in fines, community service, or even jail time. Filing a motion for contempt requires assistance from a skilled family law attorney.

The process involves proving that the non-custodial parent is willfully disregarding the court’s order, which can be challenging without proper legal representation. A contempt ruling can be a powerful tool for enforcing compliance and demonstrating the seriousness of the matter.

How We Can Help You Enforce a Child Support Order

Navigating family law matters in Houston can be complicated, especially when it comes to enforcing child support orders. Our team at Daniel Ogbeide Law is committed to helping you pursue the best legal options available. We have the knowledge and experience to advocate for your child’s rights and hold the non-paying parent accountable.

Whether you need help pursuing wage garnishment, filing a motion for contempt, or navigating other enforcement avenues, our family law attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way. From child support modification in Houston to enforcing court orders, we are here to protect your child’s well-being.

Take Control of Your Child’s Future

Are you tired of waiting for child support payments that never arrive? At Daniel Ogbeide Law, we take your child’s well-being seriously. Our skilled family lawyers in Houston, TX, are dedicated to helping you enforce your child support order and secure the financial support your child deserves.

Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you regain control over your child’s future.