Why Family Law Filings Are Rising in the Permian Basin: The Oil & Gas Connection

Family law filings across West Texas appear to be rising, and if you live or work in the Permian Basin, that trend probably feels real. At DDC Law, we’ve seen a noticeable increase in divorce, custody modification, and enforcement cases in recent months. While family issues are deeply personal, there are clear economic and social factors shaping what happens inside our local courthouses.

1. The Permian Basin Economy Impacts Family Stability

The oil and gas industry drives nearly every aspect of life in West Texas. When the market swings—whether because of corporate consolidation, layoffs, or production slowdowns—families feel it quickly.

Even small fluctuations in income can strain a marriage or custody arrangement. When companies merge or cut jobs, families often face relocations, schedule changes, and financial stress. These pressures tend to surface in court filings shortly after major shifts in the energy sector.

2. Job Changes and Long Rotations Affect Custody Arrangements

Oilfield work often comes with long rotations, night shifts, and unpredictable schedules. For divorced or separated parents, this can make standard custody arrangements difficult to maintain. We regularly see:

• Requests to modify visitation due to 14/14 or 21/7 work rotations

• Disputes over who pays travel expenses for out-of-town pickups

• Custody challenges when one parent relocates for a new oilfield or plant job

When the work schedule changes, the parenting plan often has to follow.

3. Economic Booms Bring Different Challenges Than Downturns

Interestingly, both good and bad times in the oil industry can create family stress. During booms, high income and long work hours can lead to emotional distance and infidelity. During downturns, layoffs and uncertainty can fuel resentment, depression, and instability.

In either case, families are dealing with pressure—just from opposite directions.

4. The Ripple Effect: Child Support and Modifications

When one parent experiences a significant change in income, the other often feels it in child support payments. In a region like the Permian Basin, where many incomes depend on oilfield work or contracting, sudden layoffs or overtime cuts can trigger motions to modify support.

Similarly, when someone lands a higher-paying position after a merger or acquisition, the other parent may seek an upward modification. These financial adjustments are a constant reflection of the volatility in our local economy.

5. How DDC Law, PLLC Helps Families Navigate These Transitions

We represent parents, business owners, and working professionals throughout the Permian Basin who find themselves caught in these economic crosscurrents. Whether you need to:

• Modify custody or child support after a job change

• Enforce an existing order against a non-compliant parent

• Seek temporary orders due to relocation or instability

Our firm can help you move fast, file correctly, and protect your long-term interests.

Conclusion

Family conflict doesn’t happen in a vacuum. In West Texas, where the oil and gas market shapes so many lives, the personal and the economic are deeply intertwined.

At DDC Law, we understand both the legal system and the local reality. If you’re facing family changes brought on by job loss, relocation, or financial stress, now is the time to get solid advice and a clear plan.

Call DDC Law, PLLC today at 432.222.5910 or visit www.ddclawpllc.com to schedule a free consultation.

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