713-333-4430Can Your Lawyer Get Paid Directly by Court Order? HB 2524 and Fee Enforcement in 2026
Legal fees are a common source of contention in Texas family law cases. The pressure is even more significant when one spouse controls all or most of the money, because they often know they just have to wait out the other party. If you’re concerned about being able to afford an attorney or if your ex will actually cover your court fees, there are solutions in Texas. The 2026 update to House Bill 2524 allows for direct payment of attorney’s fees. Wondering how this applies to your case? Reach out to a divorce attorney in Texas.
At Boudreaux Hunter & Associates, LLC, we know the tough position you may be put in if your ex has full control over your money. While they have the funds to hire an attorney and wear you down with constant communication and motions, you may feel like you do not have the same option. Attorney Shannon Boudreaux has handled many cases involving contentious divorces where a higher-earning spouse uses their position of privilege to manipulate their ex-spouse. You don’t have to go through this alone. Call our Texas divorce law firm at 713-333-4430 now.
What is HB 2524?
HB 2524 aims to resolve a common imbalance in family law concerns. One party has the financial ability to hire a divorce lawyer and draw out litigation to their own benefit, while the other struggles to keep up and may be forced to give up. This bill strengthens the court’s ability to order and enforce payment of attorney’s fees in a way that promotes equity.
This law supports access to legal representation, making fee awards more reliable and enforceable. It may come into play in a number of family law disputes, including divorce, child custody, and child support.
When Courts Award Attorney’s Fees in Texas Family Law
Texas courts may consider attorney’s fees awards in situations like divorce proceedings, suits affecting the parent-child relationship (or SAPCR), and enforcement cases.
Judges may look at numerous factors when deciding whether or not to award divorce attorney’s fees. They may look at financial disparities between the parties, each party’s conduct during litigation, and whether the fees are reasonable and necessary. For example, a party who is intentionally drawing out litigation, acting in bad faith, or attempting to increase costs may face a fee award.
What Changes Under HB 2524
HB 2524 doesn’t change the fact that the courts can award fees; they already had that power. What it does change is how those fees are handled and enforced. Per HB 2524, courts can order that attorney’s fees be paid directly to the lawyer, structure fees as enforceable judgments, and support collection of unpaid fees via levies, wage withholding, and other collection efforts.
In the past, the party that retained legal help but could not afford it would have to find a way to pay upfront and hope that the other party eventually fulfilled their legal obligation and reimbursed them. This route gives divorce lawyers and clients a clearer path to payment.
Why Direct Payment Orders Matter
When attorney’s fees are paid directly, the court may be significantly more balanced. The lower-earning party isn’t wondering if every email or court date will drain their bank account. Even if they are eventually reimbursed, paying those fees on their own upfront may leave them unable to afford basic living expenses.
This also keeps cases moving more quickly, because attorneys can keep working without payment interruptions. If parties acting in bad faith are at risk of wage garnishment and levies, they may also be less likely to engage in bad faith litigation to inconvenience their ex.
When Courts May Not Order Fees
Note that Texas courts don’t always order attorney’s fees to be paid by the other party. If the parties have similar financial resources or the legal fees are excessive or unsupported, both parties may be responsible for their own expenses.
How Fee Orders Are Enforced
Once fees have been awarded, they can be enforced like other judgments. The attorney owed money may, after going through the proper steps, look into wage withholding, property liens, and other collection tools as permitted under Texas law.
Protect Your Best Interests With Our Divorce Firm in Texas
If you’re facing an unbalanced family law issue that has you on edge, we’re here to help. Find out how Boudreaux Hunter & Associates, LLC can give you the guidance you’re looking for. Call our Texas divorce attorneys at 713-333-4430 or reach out online to schedule a consultation.
Shannon L. Boudreaux is a passionate advocate for her clients, working on their behalf to help them reshape their lives, their families, and their futures. For two decades, she has helped reunite parents with their children and helped clients negotiate contentious custody disputes. Learn more here.
