As a family lawyer practicing in Texas, I often see parents who have violated a child custody order. This can lead to serious consequences, including modification of the order. In this post, I will explain what it means to violate a child custody order in Texas and the potential consequences that may follow.
What is a Child Custody Order in Texas?
A child custody order in Texas is a legal document that outlines the terms of a parent’s access to their child. This order can be part of a divorce or it can be obtained through a suit affecting parent child relationship.
The order sets out specific times and places for the parent to see the child, as well as any other guidelines or restrictions related to their access.
What Does it Mean to Violate a Child Custody Order in Texas?
A parent violates a child custody order in Texas when they do not adhere to the terms outlined in the order when they were able to.
This can include denying the other parent access to the child, failing to pay child support, failing to pay for medical expenses, moving to a geographic location outside of the permitted areas, or failing to follow other guidelines outlined in the order.
It does not include the non-custodial parents failure to exercise visitation.
Consequences of Violating a Child Custody Order in Texas
If a parent violates a child custody order in Texas, they may face serious consequences, including:
- Modification of the Order
A parent who violates a child custody order in Texas may face a modification of the order. This means that the terms of the order may be changed, either temporarily or permanently, to address the violation and ensure that it does not happen again in the future. This can result in a reduction of a parent’s access to their child, or other changes to the terms of the order.
- Fines, Jail, Attorneys Fees
A parent who violates a child custody order can face fines, jail and/or reimbursing the other party for their attorneys fees.
Damage to the Parent-Child Relationship
Finally, a parent who violates a child custody order in Texas can also damage their relationship with their child. Children need stability and consistency in their relationships with their parents, and a parent who violates a court order can disrupt that stability and cause harm to the parent-child relationship.
Conclusion
If you are being accused of violating an order or if you want to accuse someone of violating a court order and you need representation, contact the team at The Blacknall Firm.
