239 – Garnishment of Wages

I. Purpose

This policy describes the legal obligation of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) to comply with a court-ordered garnishment of wages.

II. Policy

Employees are encouraged to meet their financial obligations in a manner that will not involve the HCSO. An employee’s failure to meet financial obligations may result in a court-ordered garnishment of his or her wages, in which case, the HCSO would be obligated to comply.

Employees may not use their position with the HCSO to avoid the payment of any debt, liability, claim, or judgment lawfully held against them.

III. Legal Reference

Texas Constitution, Article 16, Section 28, “Garnishment of Wages,” states:

No current wages for personal service shall ever be subject to garnishment, except for the enforcement of court-ordered:

1. Child support payments; or

2. Spousal maintenance.

Revision

This policy has been revised on the below listed dates:

April 21, 2009

September 1, 2021