Houson D. Williams, Petitioner v. Sherry Yvonne Patton, Respondent

Summary

The Texas Supreme Court held that Texas Family Code §14.41(a) bars parents from settling child‑support arrearages until the arrearages are reduced to a final judgment, rendering the parties' settlement agreement void and unenforceable; the Court affirmed the Court of Appeals judgment. Justice Phillips dissented, arguing the statute does not prohibit such settlements, while Justices Cornyn and Doggett each filed concurring opinions supporting the majority.