San Antonio Temporary Orders & Emergency Custody Lawyer
Temporary orders and emergency orders are some of the most important hearings in any divorce or child custody case. These early decisions often shape the entire case, determining where the child lives, who makes decisions, access to the home, financial support, and protections against harmful behavior.
Our office represents parents in San Antonio, Bexar County, New Braunfels, Seguin, San Marcos, and surrounding areas in all temporary order hearings and emergency custody situations.
What Are Temporary Orders?
Temporary orders are court orders put in place while a divorce or custody case is pending. They provide stability and structure until a final order can be entered.
Temporary orders may address:
- Temporary child custody & visitation schedules
- Temporary child support
- Temporary spousal support
- Access to the marital home
- Payment of bills and expenses
- Phone and electronic communication with the child
- Restrictions on harassment or interference
- Possession of vehicles and personal property
- Temporary injunctions to stop harmful behavior
Temporary orders hearings happen early in the case, and the judge’s decisions can strongly influence the final outcome.
Why Temporary Orders Are Critical
Temporary orders can determine:
✔ Where the child lives during the case
✔ Which parent gets primary decision-making
✔ Who pays support and how much
✔ Whether a parent must move out of the home
✔ What conduct each parent is prohibited from doing
✔ Whether evidence of misconduct becomes part of the record
Temporary orders can last for months or more — so these decisions matter.
We prepare aggressively for these hearings to put you in the strongest possible position.
What Happens at a Temporary Orders Hearing?
At the hearing, the judge may consider:
- Each parent’s involvement in the child’s life
- Safety concerns
- Stability of each home
- Work schedules
- Evidence of violence, neglect, or drug use
- Witness testimony
- Financial information for support issues
- Documentation of interference or misconduct
Temporary orders hearings often involve fast presentations of evidence, so preparation is key.
Emergency Orders in Texas (Emergency Custody & TROs)
Emergency orders are different from normal temporary orders.
They are used when a child or parent faces immediate danger.
Common emergency situations include:
- Abuse, neglect, or family violence
- Risk of child abduction or relocation
- Parent driving intoxicated with the child
- Severe substance abuse
- Unsafe living conditions
- Mental health crises
- A parent refusing to return the child
- Threats against a parent or child
These orders are often ex parte, meaning the judge can grant emergency relief without the other parent present.
Types of Emergency Orders
✔ Emergency Temporary Custody Orders
These give one parent immediate temporary custody to protect the child from danger.
✔ Ex Parte Temporary Restraining Orders (TROs)
Used to stop:
- Harassment
- Threats
- Destruction of property
- Removal of the child from the county
- Dangerous or harmful conduct
✔ Protective Orders
In cases involving family violence.
We act quickly to file emergency motions and appear before the court — often the same day.
When Should You Seek Emergency Orders?
You may need emergency relief if:
- Your child is in immediate physical danger
- The other parent refuses to return the child
- The other parent is using drugs/alcohol around the child
- There is violence or threats
- The other parent is attempting to flee with the child
- You need sole temporary custody for the child’s safety
Do not wait when safety is an issue — courts respond quickly to credible emergencies.
Defense Against Emergency or Temporary Orders
If you were served with emergency orders, a TRO, or a temporary order request, you must respond immediately. These hearings happen fast, and failing to appear can result in:
- Loss of custody
- Restrictions on visitation
- Orders that last until trial
- Court findings that affect final orders
We defend parents against:
- False allegations
- Exaggerated claims
- Retaliatory filings
- Attempts to gain leverage through emergency motions
Your rights and parenting time must be protected.
Why Choose Our Office
- Fast action in emergency cases
- Experienced representation in temporary orders hearings
- Strong courtroom advocacy
- Knowledge of Bexar County judges and procedures
- Strategic guidance for both emergency and non-emergency matters
- Clear communication and honest assessment
Temporary and emergency orders set the tone for the entire case.
We make sure your voice is heard from day one.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Whether you need temporary orders, emergency custody, or defense against allegations, contact our office today.
📞 Call now to schedule a consultation.