What Happens if You Ignore a Family Court Order in Texas?

Family court orders aren’t suggestions; they’re the roadmap for schedules, decisions, support, and safety. When someone drifts off that map, small issues can snowball into missed exchanges, tense weekends, or unexpected court dates. The good news: most trouble can be avoided—or fixed—with communication, documentation, and a plan.

When You’re Struggling to Comply

If the order no longer fits real life—new job hours, evolving child needs, financial shifts—communicate. Courts care about honesty and effort. A quick heads-up to the other side, a reasonable alternative, and solid records go a long way. If the problem is ongoing, a targeted modification beats “winging it” every time. 

Sims & Purzer has helped clients with modifications in the past, and we too, can help you. 

When the Other Party Isn’t Complying

Keep your cool and keep track. Save messages, note dates and times, and focus on solutions that protect your child’s routine. Safety concerns may call for law enforcement; everyday schedule hiccups often call for clarity, make-up time, or firmer terms. Remember: parenting time and child support are separate—using one to “offset” the other usually creates a second problem. Again, communication is key, but if that fails, take the first step in finding a legal resolution by reaching out to your attorney. Maybe an enforcement of the order is required.

Over the years, Sims & Purzer has assisted many clients with enforcing court orders when the other side isn’t complying. If you are in this situation, let us know.

Common Questions We Hear

Does one missed exchange matter?

• It can—especially if it becomes a pattern. But if it’s a one-time thing, better not overreact and just communicate with the opposing party and document the incident. Remember, cooler heads will prevail. If it becomes a pattern, then you might want to speak to an attorney and know your options. We can help.

Can we change the schedule by text?

• Short-term, sure. Long-term, you might want that to get formalized and on paper so nobody ends up confused. We can help.

Is it too late to fix this?

• Almost never. Judges want families to succeed with orders that work day-to-day. Communicate with the other party and see if you can settle on a fair and friendly compromise.

What if he/she just won’t follow the order, and we can’t agree on a compromise?

If your order isn’t being followed—or simply isn’t working—we’ll help you steady the ship. That may mean enforcing what’s already in place or updating terms so they’re realistic and child-focused. 

Sims & Purzer is here to help. Attorney Sonja Sims and her team have assisted many clients over the years with successful order modifications and enforcements. 

Reach out to us. Share what’s happening, and we’ll guide you toward next steps that reduce conflict, protect your child’s routine, and move your family forward with confidence. Schedule a consultation now, and take that first step towards a Family Law court order that works for you!