When a family law court order is issued for custody, child support, or visitation, it isn’t always the end of the story. Unfortunately, some people find that even after a court decision, they struggle with issues of compliance—leaving families in limbo and children potentially at risk. Imagine a situation where a parent needs financial support to care for their child, yet their co-parent doesn’t uphold their end of a child support order.

Or, consider the emotional toll of one parent failing to follow court-mandated visitation schedules, leaving the other parent and child with broken promises. Such scenarios are, unfortunately, common and speak to the importance of understanding enforcement options.

For individuals in Houston, TX, enforcement attorneys like those at Daniel Ogbeide Law play a crucial role in helping families ensure compliance with family law orders. As experienced family lawyers in Houston, TX, they help clients navigate the complexities of enforcing custody, visitation, and child support orders—safeguarding family stability and well-being.

This article will guide you through understanding what family law order enforcement entails, the legal routes available, and the importance of having professional guidance to secure compliance.

Types of Family Law Orders That May Require Enforcement

Family law orders typically cover a few critical areas that, when violated, can cause significant issues for families:

• Child Custody and Visitation: These orders determine where a child will live, how much time they will spend with each parent, and any other specific arrangements. Violations can include denying visitation rights or not returning the child as scheduled.
• Child Support: These orders ensure financial support for a child’s basic needs, including food, housing, clothing, and medical care. Non-payment or partial payment of child support is a common issue that can lead to enforcement action.
• Spousal Support (Alimony):In some cases, individuals also struggle to enforce spousal support orders, which can impact financial stability after divorce.

When one party fails to meet the obligations outlined in these orders, the other party has the right to seek legal intervention to enforce compliance.

How Are Family Law Orders Enforced?

Enforcing family law orders involves a legal process through which the court mandates that the non-complying party fulfill their obligations. Here are some common methods of enforcement:

• Income Withholding: In child and spousal support cases, income withholding can be used. Here, the court can order the paying party’s employer to automatically withhold support payments from their paycheck. This action ensures consistent payments directly from the source.
• Contempt of Court: For serious violations, an enforcement attorney in Houston may file a motion to hold the non-compliant party in contempt of court. This action, if successful, may lead to penalties, fines, and even jail time in severe cases, emphasizing the gravity of ignoring a court order.
• Property Liens: For unpaid child or spousal support, the court can place a lien on the non-paying party’s property or assets. This lien may force them to sell assets to cover unpaid amounts.
• License Suspension: Another enforcement tool involves suspending the delinquent party’s professional, driver’s, or recreational licenses. While this may sound drastic, it often compels compliance by impacting the party’s ability to work or drive.
• Interception of Tax Refunds: For delinquent support payments, courts may intercept the non-compliant party’s federal or state tax refund, redirecting the funds to fulfill child or spousal support obligations.

Each enforcement option has its own procedures and consequences, which is why working with experienced family law professionals in Houston, like those at Daniel Ogbeide Law, is vital to ensure the correct approach is taken for each unique situation.

Common Questions About Family Law Order Enforcement

What happens if a parent doesn’t follow visitation orders?

When a parent doesn’t follow visitation orders, you can file a petition with the court. The judge may issue an order to enforce visitation or take additional measures to ensure compliance.

Can the other parent change the amount of child support they’re supposed to pay?

Only the court can modify child support amounts. If your co-parent is underpaying or refuses to pay, you can request enforcement, and an attorney can help guide you through this.

How can I document a violation of a family law order?

Keeping detailed records of all incidents, including dates, missed payments, or missed visitation days, is essential. These records support your case and are critical in court proceedings.

Need Help Enforcing Family Law Orders? Contact Daniel Ogbeide Law Today

If you’re facing issues with a non-compliant family law order, don’t wait for the situation to escalate. Daniel Ogbeide Law, a dedicated team of family lawyers in Houston, TX, has the expertise to guide you through enforcing child support, custody, and visitation orders. With their support, you can take meaningful steps to uphold your rights and secure the stability your family deserves.

Contact Daniel Ogbeide Law at 832-321-7005 to discuss your case and discover how our experience in family law enforcement can help protect your family.