Question:
Can parties in a Texas family law case file an agreed motion to modify or reform the judgment after rendition if they’ve since reached a settlement?
Answer:
Yes, but only with the court’s permission—and it depends heavily on timing and the judge’s discretion. After rendition, the judgment can be reformed or modified by agreement through a motion under Rule 329b of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure if it is within the court’s plenary power—typically 30 days after the signing of the judgment. An agreed motion to modify or reform may be filed along with an agreed order. However, the court is not required to grant it. Judges differ: some welcome any agreed changes, while others may view post-rendition agreements skeptically—especially if court time was already spent on trial. A motion to vacate or render on the MSA is possible, but it still hinges on the court’s disposition and whether it sees cause to change course.