How Can I Make My Spouse Pay Spousal Support if They’re Refusing?

Depending on court-ordered spousal support is stressful, especially if your ex refuses to pay. Luckily, there are enforcement options in Texas to make sure you get the money you’re entitled to, and the team at Prince Contreras PLLC is ready to protect your rights.

Our experienced family law attorneys are here to help you navigate the enforcement process and secure your financial future. With decades of experience and deep roots in Texas, we have the knowledge and dependability needed to hold your ex accountable.

Call Prince Contreras PLLC at 210-227-7821 for a free consultation.

How Do I Enforce a Spousal Support Order if My Ex-Spouse is Not Complying?

If your ex-spouse isn’t following through on their spousal support order in Texas, you have the right to take legal action to enforce it. One of the most successful methods you can use is filing a Motion for Enforcement with the court that issued the original order. This motion asks the court to make your ex-spouse pay the overdue support.

If the court decides your ex-spouse violated the order, they can face serious consequences, including fines, wage garnishment, or even jail time.

How Can I Garnish My Spouse’s Wages if They Aren’t Paying Spousal Support?

Wage garnishment is one of the most common methods you can use to get your unpaid spousal support. If your spouse or ex-spouse is employed and refusing to pay court-ordered support, you can ask the court to issue an income withholding order.

This order is sent straight to your spouse’s employer, and it orders them to deduct the support amount from each paycheck and send it to you.

What Should I Do if My Spouse Claims They Can’t Afford to Pay Spousal Support?

If your spouse claims they can’t afford to pay spousal support, it doesn’t automatically mean they don’t have to pay. In Texas, court-ordered support must be paid unless the order is modified through a formal legal process. If your spouse is experiencing genuine financial hardship, they must file a motion with the court to request a modification.

However, until the court approves the change, your spouse is required to continue making payments. If they stop paying without permission from the court, you can take them to court to enforce the order.

Can I Seek Retroactive Spousal Support if My Spouse Has Not Been Paying?

Yes. You might be able to ask for retroactive spousal support if your spouse hasn’t been paying their court-ordered spousal support. To get these overdue payments, you can file a Motion for Enforcement with the court.

If the judge finds that your spouse withheld support on purpose, they can order them to pay the past-due amounts, plus interest. In some cases, additional penalties such as wage garnishment, liens on property, or even contempt of court charges may be imposed.

Call Today

At Prince Contreras PLLC, we’re dedicated to helping you enforce your spousal support order and secure the financial stability you deserve.

Contact us today at 210-227-7821 for a free consultation. Together, we’ll discuss your options and plan the right strategy to protect your rights.