Child Support Enforcement in Texas

Child support enforcement in Bexar County, Texas involves legal actions taken to ensure that court-ordered child support and other family law obligations are followed. When a parent fails to comply with a valid court order, Texas law provides specific enforcement tools to protect the rights of the child and the other parent.

Child support and enforcement matters are governed by Texas law and handled through family courts or, in some cases, the Texas Office of the Attorney General (OAG).

What Is a Motion for Enforcement?

A Motion for Enforcement is a legal filing used to ask the court to require a party to comply with an existing court order. If a parent fails to follow a child support order—or another family court order—the compliant party may file a Motion for Enforcement to bring the violation to the court’s attention.

Once filed, the court will:

• review the evidence,

• hear testimony from both sides, and

• determine whether the court order was violated and what consequences, if any, should apply.

Types of Court Orders That Can Be Enforced

Texas courts can enforce several types of family law orders, including:

• Child support

• Possession and access (visitation)

• Property division

• Post-divorce spousal maintenance

This page focuses primarily on child support enforcement, but similar enforcement procedures apply to other court orders.

How Child Support Is Established in Texas

Child support orders are typically established through:

• the Texas Office of the Attorney General, or

• a Texas family court, including courts in Bexar County

Support amounts are usually based on Texas child support guidelines, which consider the non-custodial parent’s income and the needs of the child. For enforcement purposes, the most current child support order must be provided to your legal team.

Child Support Enforcement Actions in Bexar County

When a parent fails to pay court-ordered child support, the court may impose a variety of enforcement measures, including:

• wage garnishment (income withholding)

• interception of tax refunds

• liens on property or bank accounts

• suspension of driver’s licenses

• suspension of professional or occupational licenses

• contempt of court, which may include fines or jail time in serious cases

The enforcement method depends on the facts of the case, the payment history, and the judge’s discretion.

Documents Needed for Child Support Enforcement

To prepare a Motion for Enforcement, the following documentation is typically required:

• a detailed timeline of missed or partial payments

• printouts from the Texas child support portal

• copies of the current child support order

• Any additional records showing non-payment

Providing complete and accurate documentation helps strengthen your enforcement case.

What to Expect During a Motion for Enforcement

Filing the Motion
A Motion for Enforcement is filed with the court that issued the original order. The motion identifies:

• The specific provisions of the order are being violated

• How the violations occurred

• The relief requested from the court

Court Review and Service
After filing, the court reviews the motion. If accepted, the court issues a Citation of Service, which must be formally served on the opposing party.

Hearing
Once service is completed and proof is filed, the court schedules a hearing. At the hearing:

• Both parties appear before the judge

• Evidence and testimony are presented

• The judge determines whether the order was violated

Court Ruling
If the judge finds non-compliance, the court will issue an enforcement order. This order may include payment requirements, penalties, or findings of contempt.

Contempt of Court in Enforcement Cases

In enforcement actions, the requesting party often asks the court to find the non-compliant parent in contempt of court. If contempt is found, the judge has discretion to impose penalties, which may include fines, jail time, or additional compliance requirements.

Why Legal Guidance Matters

Child support enforcement cases are procedural and detail-driven. Errors in filing, service, or documentation can delay enforcement or weaken your case. Working with an attorney familiar with Bexar County family courts can help ensure the process is handled correctly and efficiently.

If you are facing a child support enforcement issue in San Antonio, Bexar County, or surrounding counties, the experienced team at Denis Law Group is here to help.

Schedule your consultation today to discuss enforcement options and protect your child’s financial support.