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Penalties Levied by Child Support Enforcement In Texas

The State of Texas takes failing to pay child support very seriously; you can face several different types of penalties. Penalties of child support enforcement in Texas include contempt, liens/foreclosures, suspension of licenses and child support liens.

Failure to pay child support obligations is punishable by coercive and punitive contempt. A motion for enforcement by contempt can be filed with the court. A motion for enforcement may be filed by the parent to whom the child support obligation is owed or by the Office of Attorney General.

If the court finds the non-paying party to be guilty, they face incarceration for up to six months, fines and paying attorney’s fees. If a non-paying party fails to make a hearing appearance for child support enforcement in Texas, the court may issue a capias, which is a warrant for arrest.

Additional Possible Penalties:

  • Suspension of driver’s license
  • Denial of tax refunds or other government benefits
  • Garnishment of wages
  • Liens placed against real property
  • Denial of hunting, boating or professional licenses
  • Jail Sentence
  • Probation
  • Fines and Court Costs
  • Attorney Fees

Community Supervision Suspensions

A court may find a party in contempt and sentence them to jail but suspend the sentence and place a party on community supervision. Provisions of such probation can include a payment schedule for making up owed support as well as the requirement that all support payments be made on time. Should a party fail to follow the terms of probation, it may be revoked and that party ordered to serve the originally ordered jail time.

Consult with an Attorney

If you may be required to pay child support in an upcoming or ongoing divorce, it’s important that you seek legal representation if you have not already done so. The board certified attorneys at Ramos Law Group will answer all of your questions, including about child support enforcement in Texas, and help you to arrive at the best case resolution for you and your family. Contact Ramos Law Group PLLC today.

Last Updated on May 23, 2023 by Mary E. Ramos

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Mary E. Ramos

Mary E. Ramos is Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. She is recognized and respected throughout the Houston legal community for dedication in effectively representing clients’ rights and interests. Mary understands the emotional side of divorce and brings a special compassion to each and every case.

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