Divorce is never easy, and navigating financial responsibilities afterward can be challenging.
If your ex-spouse is not meeting their support payment obligations, knowing the steps you can take to enforce these payments in Texas is important.
Understand the court order
Carefully review the court order that outlines the support payment terms. Ensure you are clear on the amount, frequency and due dates specified in the order. This information will serve as your guide in enforcing the payments.
Communicate with your ex
Before taking legal action, try contacting your ex-spouse to discuss the issue. Maintain open communication and express the importance of adhering to the court-ordered support payments. Sometimes, a conversation can resolve a compliance issue.
Document everything
Keep detailed records of all communication regarding support payments. Documentation should include text messages, emails or any other written correspondence. Write down what you discuss verbally as well. Include dates and times. Record missed payments, late payments or any promises made by your ex-spouse to catch up on support.
File a complaint
If communicating does not work, you can file a complaint with the Texas Attorney General’s Child Support Division. They can assist in enforcing court-ordered support payments. Give them all relevant documentation. They will initiate the necessary steps to ensure compliance.
Get an income withholding order
An income withholding order can be a powerful tool to enforce support payments. This legal document instructs your ex-partner’s employer to withhold the specified amount from their wages and send it directly to you.
File a motion
If all else fails, you may need to file a motion for contempt of court. This legal action notifies the court that your ex-spouse needs to comply with the support order. The court may then take measures to enforce the order.
Enforcing support payments after a divorce in Texas requires diligence and adherence to legal procedures. It is important to take action to secure financial stability for you and your children.
