Standing Orders
In Central Texas, most counties have implemented standing orders in family law cases.
What are standing orders?
In family law cases, standing orders are established by the judges of that specific county. Standing orders pertain to children, property and the conduct of the parties while the lawsuit is pending More specifically, the standing orders require or prohibit actions from the very onset of a case.
What is the purpose of standing orders?
The purpose of standing orders is to maintain the status quo by either prohibiting a party from doing a certain act or requiring a party to do a certain act. Standing orders are in effect throughout the pendency of the lawsuit, unless modified by 1) the agreement of the parties or 2) a subsequent court order.
Which standing orders am I bound by?
Hays County – https://hayscountytx.com/courts/district-court/
Travis County – https://www.traviscountytx.gov/courts/files/family-law
Williamson County – https://www.wilcotx.gov/Search?searchPhrase=Standing%20Order%20for%20Family%20Cases%20(rev.%2010%2F2023)
Do I really need to read the standing orders?
Yes! Read the standing orders carefully. Familiarize yourself with the standing order in your case which outlines specific rules for parties in litigation. Violations of these rules are taken very seriously. When in doubt, always consult your lawyer before making a major decision related to children, property, or financial matters during the pendency of your case.
When does the standing order take effect?
They are automatically in effect in any family law case the moment the pleading (petition) starting the lawsuit is filed and are required to be attached to the original petition.
What happens if a party violates a standing order?
A standing order is a court order. Like any other court order, a party can be held in contempt of court if they violate the standing order and harsh consequences can be imposed by the Court. If you believe that the other party is violating the standing orders, you may want to speak with your attorney regarding your options to enforce the standing orders.
Written by Meagan M. Jones
