When Court Orders Are Violated: A Dallas Divorce Attorney Examines Custody Consequences in Texas

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By Michael Granata on Aug 24, 2025

Posted in Industry News

When Court Orders Are Violated: A Dallas Divorce Attorney Examines Custody Consequences in Texas-image

Divorce proceedings often involve complex emotions, financial stress, and difficult decisions about children’s welfare. For parents navigating these challenges in Dallas and surrounding areas, understanding how courts handle violations of custody orders is crucial. A recent Texas Court of Appeals case, In the Interest of E.K.D., provides valuable insights into how judges respond when parents repeatedly disregard court orders and what consequences may follow.

As an experienced dallas divorce attorney with over 25 years of practice, I’ve witnessed firsthand how violations of court orders can dramatically impact custody arrangements and child support obligations. This case serves as a stark reminder that compliance with court orders isn’t optional—it’s essential for protecting your parental rights and your child’s best interests.

Understanding the E.K.D. Case: A Cautionary Tale for Dallas Parents

Background of the Custody Dispute

The case of In the Interest of E.K.D. began with two parents, Kailyn Andrews and Nicholas Denbrock, who had previously established custody arrangements in Nevada. The original Nevada orders granted both parents “joint legal custody” with a week-on, week-off possession schedule. However, when Denbrock filed suit in Texas to modify these arrangements, the situation quickly deteriorated.

Denbrock sought exclusive rights to designate the child’s residence and make all medical and educational decisions. Andrews counterpetitioned for similar relief, setting the stage for a contentious four-day trial that stretched across six months. The outcome would prove devastating for Andrews’ parental rights.

The Pattern of Violations That Changed Everything

During the proceedings, the trial court documented approximately two dozen violations of court orders by Andrews. While some infractions were relatively minor—such as failing to provide her new address promptly—others were far more serious and directly impacted the child’s wellbeing.

The court found that Andrews had:

  • Refused to turn over the child during Denbrock’s scheduled possession periods
  • Left the state without permission, violating geographical restrictions
  • Made disparaging comments about Denbrock to the child, referring to him and his family as “demons,” “psychos,” and “evil monkeys”
  • Exhibited concerning behavior including suicidal ideation and paranoid beliefs about being followed
  • Engaged in “doctor shopping” by seeking multiple medical opinions without consulting Denbrock
  • Cancelled important medical appointments including the child’s four-year checkup and dental visits after losing medical decision-making authority
  • Attempted to physically remove the child from Denbrock’s vehicle during what should have been supervised visitation
  • Refused to identify herself at a court hearing
  • Sent inappropriate communications to the trial court through social media

Perhaps most telling was Andrews’ testimony that she would only follow court orders “when it’s in the best interest of [the child]”—essentially claiming the right to unilaterally decide which court orders to obey.

The Court’s Response: Supervised Visitation and Maximum Child Support

The consequences of these violations were severe. The trial court:

  1. Appointed both parties as joint managing conservators but granted Denbrock exclusive rights, including the right to designate the child’s residence
  2. Limited Andrews to supervised visitation only
  3. Ordered Andrews to pay $1,500 monthly in child support based on finding her net monthly resources were $9,200—the statutory maximum

Andrews’ Appeal and the Court’s Analysis

Andrews appealed the decision, raising three primary arguments:

  1. The trial court abused its discretion by requiring supervised visitation
  2. The evidence was insufficient to rebut the presumption favoring a standard possession order
  3. The trial court erred in determining her income for child support purposes

The Custody Decision Stands

The Court of Appeals applied the abuse of discretion standard, noting that “the best interest of the child shall always be the primary consideration” in custody determinations. The court emphasized that custody cases are “intensely fact driven” and that trial courts are “in the best position to observe the demeanor and personalities of the witnesses.”

Under the Holley factors and Texas Family Code best-interest standards, courts consider multiple factors including:

  • The child’s emotional and physical needs
  • Parental abilities of each individual
  • The stability of proposed living arrangements
  • Any acts or omissions indicating an improper parent-child relationship
  • The ability of parents to encourage positive relationships with the other parent

The appellate court found substantial evidence supporting the trial court’s decision. Andrews’ pattern of interference with Denbrock’s relationship with the child, combined with her explicit statement that she would only follow court orders she deemed appropriate, provided clear justification for supervised visitation.

Child Support Calculation Upheld

Regarding child support, Andrews challenged the court’s finding that her monthly income was $20,000, resulting in net resources at the statutory maximum. However, Andrews had refused to provide trust documents, bank records, or other financial information despite discovery requests and court orders.

The court noted that Andrews reported approximately $7,000 in monthly expenses for rent, car payments, and therapy alone—far exceeding the $2,000 to $4,000 she claimed to receive from her father’s business. This discrepancy, combined with her refusal to provide documentation, supported the trial court’s income determination.

Key Lessons for Dallas Area Parents

The Importance of Court Order Compliance

This case demonstrates that courts take violations of custody orders seriously, particularly when they involve a pattern of interference with the other parent’s relationship with the child. Even if you disagree with a court order, the proper recourse is to seek modification through legal channels, not to simply disregard the order.

Documentation Matters in Financial Disputes

Andrews’ refusal to provide financial documentation ultimately worked against her in the child support calculation. When parents fail to provide required financial information, courts may make reasonable inferences based on available evidence, often to the non-complying party’s detriment.

The Child’s Best Interest Remains Paramount

Throughout the proceedings, the court consistently focused on what arrangement would best serve the child’s interests. Andrews’ behavior—including making disparaging comments about the father to the child and attempting to physically remove the child during visitation—clearly worked against this standard.

How an Experienced Dallas Family Law Attorney Can Help

Protecting Your Parental Rights

If you’re facing a custody dispute in Dallas, Irving, Garland, Richardson, Mesquite, DeSoto, Grand Prairie, Lakewood, Highland Park, Forest Hills, White Rock, North Dallas, Farmers Branch, Cockrell Hill, Lancaster, Seagoville, or Duncanville, having experienced legal representation is crucial. A skilled family law attorney serving Dallas can help you:

  1. Understand your obligations under existing court orders
  2. Document any violations by the other parent
  3. Seek appropriate modifications when circumstances change
  4. Prepare comprehensive financial documentation for support determinations
  5. Present compelling evidence supporting your position

Strategic Approach to Complex Cases

Every custody case is unique, requiring a strategic approach tailored to your specific circumstances. As a best divorce lawyer in Dallas with over 25 years of experience, I focus on:

  • Honest assessment of your case’s strengths and weaknesses
  • Transparent communication about likely outcomes
  • Strategic planning to protect your interests
  • Thorough preparation for court proceedings
  • Compassionate support during this difficult time

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

The E.K.D. case illustrates several common mistakes that can devastate your custody case:

  • Never disparage the other parent in front of your child
  • Always comply with court orders, even if you disagree
  • Provide complete financial documentation when required
  • Maintain appropriate boundaries during exchanges and visitation
  • Seek legal guidance before taking actions that might violate orders

Understanding Texas Child Support Guidelines

Income Determination

Texas courts have broad discretion in determining income for child support purposes, especially when parties fail to provide complete financial information. The Family Code defines net resources to include income from various sources, including trust income and “all other income actually received.”

Maximum Support Obligations

Texas law sets statutory maximums for child support obligations. When a parent’s net monthly resources exceed these limits, courts may still order support at the maximum level, particularly when the paying parent has failed to provide adequate financial documentation.

Modification Possibilities

Child support orders can be modified when circumstances materially and substantially change. However, the burden of proof lies with the party seeking modification, making thorough documentation and legal representation essential.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Legal Representation

Experience in Complex Cases

High-conflict custody cases like E.K.D. require experienced legal representation familiar with Texas family law. Whether you’re dealing with uncontested divorce attorney in dallas matters or complex contested divorce in dallas situations, having the right attorney makes a crucial difference.

Comprehensive Family Law Services

Our practice offers comprehensive family law services including:

Personalized Attention and Transparent Pricing

Unlike larger firms that may treat you as just another case number, we provide personalized attention with transparent pricing. You’ll receive clear explanations of your legal options and honest assessments of your case’s prospects—not empty reassurances or undeliverable promises.

Moving Forward: Protecting Your Family’s Future

Immediate Steps to Take

If you’re involved in a custody dispute or considering divorce, take these immediate steps:

  1. Document everything related to custody exchanges and the other parent’s behavior
  2. Comply fully with all existing court orders
  3. Gather financial documentation including tax returns, bank statements, and employment records
  4. Avoid negative communications about the other parent, especially around your children
  5. Consult with an experienced attorney to understand your rights and options

Long-term Considerations

Successful co-parenting after divorce requires ongoing commitment to your children’s best interests. This includes:

  • Maintaining consistent compliance with court orders
  • Communicating respectfully with the other parent
  • Prioritizing your children’s emotional wellbeing
  • Seeking modification through proper legal channels when circumstances change

Conclusion: Expert Legal Guidance When You Need It Most

The E.K.D. case serves as a powerful reminder that family court judges have broad discretion to protect children’s best interests, and they will not hesitate to impose significant consequences when parents repeatedly violate court orders. Whether you’re seeking a child custody lawyer in dallas or need guidance on any aspect of Texas family law, experienced legal representation is essential.

At our Dallas practice, we understand that every family situation is unique. We’re committed to providing honest, strategic guidance while maintaining the compassionate approach our clients deserve during these difficult times. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions based on facts and realistic assessments, not false hope or empty promises.

If you’re facing a custody dispute, divorce proceedings, or need assistance with any family law matter in Dallas or surrounding areas, don’t wait to seek professional guidance. The decisions you make today can impact your family’s future for years to come.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Take the first step toward protecting your family’s future by scheduling a consultation with an experienced dallas divorce attorney. During your initial meeting, we’ll provide an honest assessment of your situation, explain your legal options clearly, and develop a strategic approach tailored to your specific needs.

Contact our office today to learn more about how we can help you navigate this challenging time with confidence and clarity. Your family’s future is too important to leave to chance—let our experience and dedication work for you.

For more insights on Texas family law and divorce-related topics, visit our blog for additional resources and updates on important legal developments affecting Dallas area families.

Michael Granata
Michael Granata

The Law Office of Michael P. Granata of Dallas, Texas, is a Dallas law office specializing in Dallas divorce, paternity and family law. As a Dallas divorce attorney I strive to timely resolve your case in a prompt and expeditious manner. Please click the link on “Our Practice Areas” page to learn about the different types of cases we handle.If you are seeking a Dallas divorce attorney who provides quality legal service and has a tradition of integrity and technical expertise then you have arrived at the right place. We handle all types of divorces from simple uncontested divorces to complex marital property cases, from simple visitation/possession issues to contested child custody proceedings. As a divorce attorney, Michael P. Granata will aggressively represent your interests to obtain any and all relief.