Standing Orders in Texas Family Law Cases

In Texas, Standing Orders are legal orders that automatically go into effect in family law cases once the case is filed. These orders are intended to provide guidelines and protect the interests of all parties involved, including spouses, children, and property, during the course of the case. They help maintain stability and prevent immediate harm or disruption to individuals or assets.

The key points regarding Standing Orders for Family Law Cases in Texas:

1. Automatic Application: Once a family law case, such as a divorce or child custody case, is filed in Texas, the Standing Orders automatically apply to both parties involved. These orders are typically attached to the initial petition or complaint and are served to all parties along with the summons.
2. Temporary Restraining Effect: The Standing Orders act as temporary restraining orders and prohibit certain actions by the parties. They are designed to maintain the status quo during the legal proceedings and prevent any immediate harm or damage to individuals or property. These orders are in effect until the court makes a final determination or until further orders are issued.
3. Standardized Content: The content of the Standing Orders may vary slightly between different counties in Texas, but they generally cover common areas of concern in family law cases. Some common provisions found in Standing Orders include:
   • Prohibition on removing children from the jurisdiction without the written agreement of both parties or a court order.
   • Restrictions on withdrawing large sums of money from bank accounts or selling significant assets without the consent of both parties or a court order.
   • Prohibition on harassing, threatening, or disturbing the peace of the other party or the children.
   • Orders to maintain health insurance coverage for the children.
   • Restrictions on canceling or changing existing insurance policies.
   • Prohibition on changing beneficiaries on life insurance policies or retirement accounts.
   • Orders to maintain existing utility and other household-related bills.
4. Binding Effect: Violating the Standing Orders can result in legal consequences. Courts may consider violations when making decisions on issues like custody, visitation, and property division. Therefore, it is crucial for both parties to adhere to the orders until modified or lifted by the court.
5. Modifications and Exceptions: In some cases, the court may modify or clarify the Standing Orders based on the specific circumstances of the case. Parties can also request exceptions to certain provisions if there are compelling reasons to do so. However, any modifications or exceptions would require the court’s approval.
6. Purpose and Intent: Standing Orders are put in place to provide stability and protect the rights and interests of all parties involved in a family law case. They aim to prevent immediate harm, maintain the status quo, and promote fairness and consistency during the legal proceedings.
7. Scope of Application: Standing Orders apply to a variety of family law cases, including divorces, child custody disputes, child support cases, modifications of existing orders, and enforcement proceedings. They typically apply to both the petitioner (the party who initiates the case) and the respondent (the other party).
8. Applicability Period: The Standing Orders go into effect immediately upon the filing of the family law case. They remain in effect until the court enters a final order or until further orders are issued by the court. This means that parties are expected to comply with the orders throughout the entire duration of the case unless modified by the court.
9. Geographic Variation: The specific content and provisions of Standing Orders can vary from county to county in Texas. Each county’s local rules and practices may influence the exact wording and scope of the orders. Therefore, it’s important for individuals involved in a family law case to consult the specific Standing Orders applicable in their jurisdiction.
10. Mandatory Nature: Standing Orders are mandatory and binding on both parties involved in the case. Even if the parties agree to something different or attempt to make their own arrangements, the court can still enforce the Standing Orders if they are violated. It is crucial for both parties to understand and comply with the orders to avoid potential legal consequences.
11. Ex Parte Temporary Orders: In some cases, the court may issue temporary orders, also known as ex parte orders, in addition to the Standing Orders. Temporary orders address immediate issues such as temporary child custody, support, or visitation arrangements, and they remain in effect until the court holds a hearing and makes more permanent orders.
12. Modification or Exception Requests: If a party wishes to modify or seek exceptions to any provision of the Standing Orders, they must file a motion with the court and provide a compelling reason for the requested change. The court will then consider the motion and make a determination based on the best interests of the parties involved.

It’s important to note that the exact language and provisions of Standing Orders may vary by jurisdiction in Texas. Therefore, individuals involved in family law cases should refer to the specific Standing Orders applicable in their courts for precise information and guidance.

Common questions and answers about Standing Orders in Texas family law cases:

1. Can the Standing Orders be modified or lifted during the case? Yes, the court has the authority to modify or lift the Standing Orders based on the circumstances of the case. Either party can request a modification or seek exceptions to specific provisions by filing a motion with the court. The court will then consider the motion and make a decision based on the best interests of the parties involved.
2. What happens if one party violates the Standing Orders? Violating the Standing Orders can have legal consequences. The court may consider the violations when making decisions on issues like custody, visitation, and property division. The non-violating party can also seek enforcement of the orders through legal means, such as filing a motion for contempt.
3. Do Standing Orders apply to property division and financial matters? Yes, Standing Orders often include provisions related to financial matters, such as restrictions on selling assets, changing beneficiaries, or canceling insurance policies. These provisions aim to maintain the status quo and protect the parties’ property interests during the divorce or family law case.
4. Can the parties agree to modify the Standing Orders? While the Standing Orders are generally mandatory, the parties can agree to modify them by mutual consent. However, any modifications should be put in writing and submitted to the court for approval. It is important to note that the court has the final authority to approve or reject the proposed modifications.
5. How are Standing Orders enforced? If a party believes that the other party has violated the Standing Orders, they can file a motion for enforcement with the court. The court will review the allegations and, if found in violation, may issue penalties or take corrective action to ensure compliance with the orders.
6. Are Standing Orders the same as a protective order or restraining order? No, Standing Orders in Texas family law cases are not the same as protective orders or restraining orders. Standing Orders primarily aim to establish temporary rules and guidelines for the parties involved in a family law case, whereas protective orders or restraining orders are specifically designed to protect individuals from abuse or harm.
7. Do standing orders have to attach to a divorce petition?  In Texas, the requirement to attach Standing Orders to a divorce petition can vary depending on the county and local rules. While some counties may require the Standing Orders to be attached to the initial divorce petition, others may have different procedures in place. It is common practice for Standing Orders to be included as a separate document that is served along with the divorce petition and summons to the other party. This ensures that both parties are aware of the Standing Orders and their obligations from the outset of the case.