Modification and Enforcement of Family Court Orders in Texas
By Corpus Christi Family Law Attorney R.F. Michael Snodgrass of Snodgrass Law Firm
When Life Changes. or Court Orders Are Ignored.
Family court orders are meant to provide clarity and stability after a divorce or custody case. But life doesn’t stand still. Jobs change. Children grow. And sometimes, one parent simply refuses to follow the court’s orders.
If you’re dealing with outdated orders or an ex-spouse who won’t comply, Texas law allows you to seek modification or enforcement of family court orders. At Snodgrass Law Firm, we help clients in Corpus Christi and throughout South Texas protect their rights, and their children, when court orders need to change or be enforced.
What Is a Modification of a Family Court Order?
A modification asks the court to change an existing order because circumstances have materially and substantially changed since the order was signed.
Common modifications involve:
Child custody (conservatorship)
Visitation and possession schedules
Child support
Medical support and insurance obligations
Learn more about Child Custody.
Common Reasons for Modification
A parent relocates or plans to move
A significant change in income
A child’s medical, educational, or emotional needs change
One parent is no longer exercising visitation
The child (age 12 or older) expresses a preference
Texas courts focus on the best interest of the child, not what is most convenient for either parent.
When Can Child Support Be Modified?
Child support can usually be modified when:
It has been at least 3 years since the order and payments differ by $100 or 20%, or
There has been a material and substantial change in circumstances
Examples include job loss, promotion, disability, or changes in the child’s needs.
⚠️ Important: Child support does not automatically change just because your income does. You must obtain a new court order.
Leare more about Uncontested Divorce.
What Is Enforcement of a Court Order?
Enforcement actions are used when someone is violating an existing court order.
Common enforcement cases include:
Unpaid child support
Denied visitation or possession
Failure to provide health insurance
Refusing to pay ordered expenses
Violating custody provisions
Texas courts take enforcement seriously - and consequences can be severe.
Tools the Court Can Use to Enforce Orders
Depending on the violation, the court may:
Hold the non-compliant party in contempt
Order wage withholding
Award make-up visitation
Impose fines or attorney’s fees
Issue jail time in serious cases
Learn more about Contested Divorce.
Modification vs. Enforcement: Which Do You Need?
Situation
Order is outdated ✅Modification
Ex refuses to follow order ✅Enforcement
Income has changed ✅Modification
Missed child support payments ✅Enforcement
Visitation being denied ✅Enforcement
In some cases, both actions may be appropriate, but they must be filed correctly and with proper evidence.
Why You Should Not “Self-Help”
Many parents make the mistake of:
Withholding visitation
Stopping child support payments
Making informal agreements
⚠️ Even if the other parent is wrong, violating a court order yourself can hurt your case.
The right approach is to return to court and seek relief through proper legal channels.
How Snodgrass Law Firm Can Help
We represent parents and spouses in:
Modification of custody, visitation, and support
Enforcement and contempt proceedings
Emergency motions when children are at risk
Negotiated modifications to avoid trial when possible
📍 We serve clients in Corpus Christi, Nueces County, San Patricio County, Aransas County, and throughout South Texas.
📞 If your life has changed - or the other party refuses to follow the rules - let’s talk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I modify a custody order without going to court?
No. Any modification must be signed by a judge to be enforceable.
Can my ex go to jail for not paying child support?
Yes, in serious enforcement cases involving contempt.
How long does modification take in Texas?
It depends on complexity, but many cases resolve within a few months.
Can I enforce visitation if there’s no police involvement?
Yes. Visitation enforcement is handled through the family court - not law enforcement.
👉 Contact Snodgrass Law Firm today to discuss your situation and next steps.
Contact Snodgrass Law Firm, PLLC today to schedule a consultation and learn how experienced legal representation can make a meaningful difference in your Family Law case. Please email us at info@snodlaw.com or call or text us at 361-239-8332 to set up a consultation at our office, by phone, or on Zoom. Snodgrass Law Firm serves clients in Corpus Christi, Nueces, San Patricio, and Aransas Counties, and throughout South Texas.
This article is provided for general educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney–client relationship is formed by reading this content.
Last updated January 20, 2026.
