Grapevine, TX Divorce Decree Enforcement Lawyers

Dedicated Attorneys Working to Enforce Family Law Court Orders in Grapevine, Texas

When a judge issues an official order in a court of family law, all parties are expected to abide by it. If one party—whether a former spouse, a co-parent, or someone else entirely—refuses to comply with the court order, legal action may need to be taken. With legal assistance from a Grapevine family law attorney, you can request the court to enforce the order.

At Powell Law Offices, P.C., we understand how frustrating it can be when an ex-spouse or a co-parent openly violates a court order. We can work with you to uphold the judge's terms, helping you compile evidence of violations and arguing for an appropriate resolution.

Enforcement of Support Orders in Texas

When a court issues an order for child support or spousal maintenance, that order carries the full weight of Texas law. Failing to comply with its terms can have serious legal and financial consequences. The court expects both parties to follow the judgment as written, and when one party falls behind or refuses to pay, the other can seek enforcement.

For child support, the Texas Attorney General's Office or a private attorney can initiate enforcement actions. Common remedies include wage garnishment, interception of tax refunds, suspension of driver's or professional licenses, and liens placed on property or bank accounts. If nonpayment is willful, the court may even order jail time. Courts also have authority to award interest on past-due payments and require the noncompliant parent to pay the other's attorney fees.

Enforcement of spousal maintenance begins by filing a motion to enforce. A spouse who fails to make court-ordered maintenance payments can face income withholding, property liens, or contempt proceedings. Because the burden of proof falls on the person seeking enforcement, accurate documentation and legal representation are critical.

Enforcement of Child Custody Arrangements

Child custody and visitation orders are legally binding, and both parents are expected to comply with them fully. If one parent consistently withholds visitation, refuses to return a child, or interferes with the other parent's time, the court can step in. Enforcement actions may include modifying the custody order, awarding make-up parenting time, imposing fines, or even transferring primary custody in severe cases.

Texas courts focus on protecting the child's best interests, so they will consider patterns of misconduct and the emotional impact on the child when deciding how to respond. Sometimes, violations result from misunderstandings or changing schedules. In those situations, a court may encourage mediation before pursuing penalties. But if one parent repeatedly disregards the court's authority, enforcement becomes necessary to restore stability and fairness.

Contempt of Court in Texas Family Law Cases

When a person intentionally violates a court order in a family law case, a judge can hold them in contempt of court. Contempt is a serious matter and can lead to fines, wage garnishment, or even jail time. It often applies when someone refuses to pay support, denies visitation rights, hides assets, or otherwise defies a clear directive from the court.

Judges use contempt not to punish past behavior alone but to compel compliance going forward. By enforcing the court's authority, Texas family law judges aim to protect children's welfare, uphold financial fairness, and maintain respect for the judicial process.

Our attorneys can help you pursue or defend against enforcement actions and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.

Meet With a Grapevine Court Order Enforcement Lawyer

At Powell Law Offices, P.C., we have the legal knowledge and resources to help you file for enforcement of a court order. To schedule a free initial consultation with our firm, call our offices at 972-584-9382 or contact our Grapevine, TX family law attorneys.