How Do I Make My Ex Pay Child Support in Texas?

 Posted on March 26, 2024 in Family Law

Dealing with an ex-partner who refuses to pay or neglects his child support payments in Texas can be stressful, and you may require financial assistance to properly provide for your child. It may be possible to make your ex pay his child support, though you will need the assistance of an experienced Texas child support attorney to navigate the enforcement process.

Consequences of Not Paying Child Support in Texas

In Texas, child support payments are taken seriously, and there can be strict penalties enforced when your ex decides to stop paying child support. The consequences of not paying child support in Texas include any of the following:

• License suspension (applies to driver’s licenses, professional licenses, or recreational licenses, such as fishing or hunting licenses)

• Denial of passport applications

• Liens placed on property, bank accounts, or retirement plans

• Credit bureau reports for the outstanding child support payments

• Garnishment or interception of paychecks, tax refunds, or any lottery winnings

• Fines

• Jail time

For parents who are extremely behind on their child support payments and continuing to neglect their payments, an additional six percent interest charge may be added yearly until all of the payments are paid in full.

What Are My Options for Enforcing Texas Child Support?

Enforcing Texas child support can be a complex and lengthy process, though you do have options for pursuing child support payments from your ex.

The first step is speaking with a child support attorney to understand your enforcement options and advocate for your rights. With the help of an experienced attorney, your case can be moved through the Texas child support system more effectively.

Additionally, your attorney can help you figure out if child support payments need to be adjusted. Modifications to child support are allowed under Texas Family Code in certain situations where your ex is legitimately struggling to make payments, such as in the case of job loss or injury.

If neither of these options work, you can file an enforcement order with the court. Your ex may be found in contempt of court for violating child support payment orders, and he may be issued a fine or arrest warrant. In the case your ex receives an arrest warrant, you may be able to take further action through the Child Support Evaders Program.

Contact a Llano County, TX Child Support Attorney

Ensuring your ex makes child support payments on time can be stressful, and enforcement may be needed in your situation to receive the financial help you need to provide for your child. An experienced Llano, TX child support lawyer can guide you through your legal options and help you pursue enforcement as necessary. Attorney Russ Baker has more than 15 years of experience with complex legal issues, and he will advocate strongly for your rights to receive child support.

Call Law Office of Russ Alan Baker, PLLC at 325-216-2006 for a consultation.