Enforce Your Parental Rights With A Trusted Child Custody Enforcement Attorney In Kingsville
Child custody arrangements create clear boundaries that protect your child’s well-being and set firm expectations for parents. Courts design these agreements to outline where the child lives, when each parent sees them and who makes the important decisions in their lives. When one parent ignores these rules, it can disrupt your child’s stability and violate your basic rights as a parent.
Allison Strauss, Attorney at Law, PLLC, approaches each case with knowledge and sensitivity, recognizing the stress and heartache that custody violations cause. Through nearly 20 years of work as a child custody enforcement attorney, she has helped countless families across Kingsville and South Texas resolve issues quickly while reducing conflict.
Common Child Custody Order Violations In Texas
Parents violating child custody orders create conflicts that can create emotional trauma for their children, affecting their relationships and mental health for years. This is why Texas family courts take these violations seriously. Allison Strauss has extensive experience helping families through various issues, including:
- Denial of visitation: This type of interference of possession happens when one parent repeatedly prevents the other from seeing their child during court-ordered time.
- Refusal of communications: A parent might block phone calls, texts or video chats between the child and their co-parent, violating communication rights outlined in the court-ordered parenting arrangement.
- Failure to return child: In many cases, a parent would keep the child beyond their allowed time, causing anxiety for both the child and the waiting parent.
- Parental alienation: This happens when one parent systematically changes the child’s relationship with the other through negative talk, false accusations or manipulation.
- Parental kidnapping: In severe cases, a parent would take the child across country or state lines without permission. This can potentially trigger criminal charges alongside family court proceedings.
Each of these is a valid ground for taking legal action for custody violation. The violating parent can be held in contempt of court, resulting in fines, custody arrangements that favor the compliant parent and even jail time for custody violation.
Beyond The Basics: Enforcement Of Custody Order FAQs
When dealing with a co-parent who ignores court orders, parents often have similar questions about their rights and legal options. Below, Allison Strauss addresses the most common concerns she hears from parents who need enforcement assistance.
What steps can I take if the other parent is not following our court-ordered custody schedule?
First, document all instances where the other parent failed to follow the custody schedule. Include dates, times and specific violations, and keep all communication records between you and your co-parent.
Next, file a motion to enforce custody with the court. This formal petition to enforce custody tells the court that your former spouse is not compliant with the existing order. The court may issue an order to appear, allowing them to explain their actions.
If the situation is urgent, you may request expedited enforcement, asking for faster court intervention. Afterward, you and your lawyer will present your evidence during the enforcement hearing. Here, the judge will determine the appropriate remedies for the violation, which may include makeup parenting time, modified custody arrangements or financial penalties.
Can a parent be arrested or jailed for violating a child custody order in Texas?
Yes, Texas courts can impose jail time for serious or repeated violations. When a parent willfully disobeys a court-ordered custody arrangement, the court may find them in contempt. Jail sentences for custody order violations in Texas typically range from a few days to six months, depending on the severity and frequency of violations.
What evidence do I need to prove a child custody order has been violated?
Courts require clear documentation that shows the other parent violated the custody agreement. You must keep detailed records of every violation, including:
- A calendar marking all missed visitation or late returns
- Text messages, emails and other written communications about visitation issues
- Phone records showing attempts to contact the other parent
- Witness statements
- Records of denied phone calls or virtual visits
- Documentation of interference with your decision-making rights
- Photographs or videos that demonstrate violations
- Receipts showing expenses incurred due to the violations
The judge will examine this evidence during your hearing for enforcement. The more organized and thorough your documentation, the stronger your position will be.
Defend Your Child’s Rights – Contact A Kingsville Child Custody Enforcement Attorney Today
Do not let inconsistent parenting time create unnecessary stress and confusion in your child’s life. Reach out to Allison Strauss today by calling 361-516-0034. You can also send her an email by completing this online form. Take the first step toward protecting your parental rights and your child’s security.