You might think you’re doing what’s best by keeping your child a little longer or even taking them out of state in the heat of a custody dispute. However, interfering with the custody order can lead to serious consequences.
Under Texas law, you could be facing felony charges for keeping or taking a child in violation of a court order. This can include:
- Refusing to return the child after visitation ends
- Taking a child out of state without the other parent’s consent
- Hiding a child to prevent contact with the other parent.
A conviction carries the risk of imprisonment and substantial fines. Beyond a criminal record, this can also hurt your chances in future custody battles and even put your parental rights at risk.
There are better options
Don’t take matters into your own hands if you feel a custody order is unfair or unsafe or even in retaliation. Texas family courts are open to hearing concerns and modifying custody arrangements, especially when a child’s well-being is at stake.
For instance, you may request that the court issue an emergency order to quickly change custody arrangements when your child’s safety is at risk. Similarly, you could petition the court for custody modifications if your co-parent is constantly violating the current orders.
Taking the right legal steps matters
Custody conflicts can quickly get out of hand, especially in high-conflict situations, and even seemingly slight or innocuous actions can lead to serious legal consequences. If you’re unsure about what to do or feel trapped in a difficult situation, get clarity before making a move. The proper legal guidance can help you protect your child’s well-being and your parental rights without stepping outside the law.