Skip to Content
Mueller Family Law Group Mueller Family Law Group
Built On Board-Certified Experience Since 1995 214-225-6766
Top

How to Enforce Child Support in Texas

A mother and daughter working on a child support worksheet
|

Getting What Your Child is Owed

When it comes to child support, the State of Texas takes its obligations very seriously. The Lone Star State has one of the most stringent enforcement policies in the nation. If you’re owed child support payments, here are a few ways to enforce the order:

Wage Withholding

There are several powerful tools available when enforcing a child support order in Texas. The most common method of enforcement is wage withholding. This requires the court to send an Income Withholding Order (IWO) to the payer’s employer, who must then deduct the amount ordered from each paycheck.

Enforcement Strategies and the Attorney General

In addition to wage withholding, the State of Texas also utilizes other enforcement strategies to ensure that child support orders are met. The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) can enforce a child support order by reporting delinquent payers to credit bureaus and intercepting state and federal income tax refunds.

The OAG can also enforce a child support order by placing liens on property, suspending driver’s licenses, and suspending professional and recreational licenses. In addition, the OAG can refer cases of unpaid child support to local district attorneys for criminal prosecution.

Court Order Enforcement

In addition to the enforcement strategies mentioned above, you can also seek a court order. You can file a motion for contempt with the court if you’re owed child support payments and the payer hasn’t complied with the court order. The motion will ask the court to enforce the order and require that the payer begin making payments. The court can enforce its order by imposing fines, jail time, or other penalties.

Keep in mind that no matter which enforcement strategy you choose, your primary goal should always be getting the child support payments you’re owed. With the right enforcement tools, you can ensure that your child gets the financial support they need and deserve.

Work With an Attorney

If you’re struggling to enforce a child support order in Texas, it’s vital to seek legal advice from an experienced family law attorney. An attorney can help you navigate complex state laws and regulations and find the right solution for enforcing a child support order. At Mueller Family Law Group, our team is dedicated to helping our clients achieve the outcome that meets their needs.


Learn more about how we can help enforce a child support order or schedule a consultation with a member of our team by calling (214) 225-6766 or visiting our website.

Categories: 

You Need Action

Not Talk.

Building The Path Forward
And The Steps To Get You There

  • 100+ Years of Combined Experience
    Our team is uniquely equipped with the experience and insight of seasoned veterans and the agility of some of the brightest minds in law.
  • Adapting to
    Your Needs
    Whether you prefer to visit us in one of our offices or meet using video conference, we're ready to help you in any capacity you need.
  • A Team-Based, Collaborative Environment
    Our clients always come first. We work with you as a team to determine a strategy to help achieve your goals while keeping a realistic view.
  • Integrity & Honesty Are Everything
    From our first meeting to the conclusion of your case, we stand by the quality of our work. We always strive to do right by our clients.

You Need More Than Words.
You need Board-Certified Results.

  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from Mueller Family Law Group at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy