When your ex stops paying child support or spousal support, it’s not just frustrating—it’s a legal issue. The law in Texas provides several ways to enforce support payments and ensure that you receive what you are owed. If you’re dealing with non-payment, watch the video below and read the article to explore the five key things you need to know.
1. Non-Payment Is a Legal Violation, Not Just a Moral One
Failing to pay court-ordered support is not just unfair—it’s illegal. The courts take missed payments seriously and have mechanisms in place to enforce compliance. If your ex refuses to pay, they are violating a legally binding order, which can have serious consequences for them.
2. Courts Can Enforce Payment in Multiple Ways
If your ex isn’t paying, the courts have sev
eral enforcement options, including:
- Wage Garnishment – The court can order your ex’s employer to deduct payments directly from their paycheck.
- Tax Refund Seizure – The government can intercept your ex’s tax refund and apply it toward their unpaid support.
- Bank Levies – Courts may order a bank account seizure to recover unpaid support.
- License Suspension – In some cases, a delinquent parent may lose their driver’s license or professional licenses until they catch up on payments.
3. They Could Face Contempt of Court Penalties
Ignoring a support order can result in contempt of court charges. This can lead to significant penalties, such as:
- Jail time of up to six months
- Fines of $500 per violation
- Additional fees and court costs These penalties are designed to compel compliance and ensure that the financial needs of children and former spouses are met.
4. You Can Take Legal Action—And Your Ex May Pay the Legal Fees
If you have to return to court to enforce a support order, you shouldn’t have to worry about attorney’s fees. Texas courts generally order the non-paying party to cover legal costs associated with enforcing support. That means you don’t have to carry the financial burden of legal action just to get the money you’re already owed.
5. You Have Legal Options—And We Can Help
If your ex has stopped paying child support or spousal support, you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. At Ilarraza Law, Board-Certified Family Law Attorney Jennifer Ilarraza and her experienced team are here to help you enforce support orders and protect your rights. We understand Texas family law and know how to take action when an ex refuses to pay.
If you need assistance recovering unpaid support, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Call 214-307-1403 or request a consult online to learn more about how we can help you get the financial support you deserve.
