E. Dismissal Date

An order for required participation expires on the 180th day after the date the order is signed unless extended as provided by Tex. Fam. Code § 264.203(r) or (s). Tex. Fam. Code § 264.203(q).

A court-ordered services case may be extended up to an additional 180 days from the original expiration date upon a showing by DFPS of a continuing need for the order, after notice and hearing. Tex. Fam. Code § 264.203(r).

The court may extend an order up to an additional 180 days only if the court finds:

•   The extension is necessary to allow the person time to complete ordered services;

•   DFPS made a good faith effort to timely provide the services to the person;

•   The person made a good faith effort to complete the services;

•   The completion of the services is necessary to ensure the physical health and safety of the child; and

•   The extension is requested by the person or the person's attorney. Tex. Fam. Code § 264.203(s).

Any party can request termination of the order at any time. The court must terminate the order on a finding the order is no longer needed. Tex. Fam. Code § 264.203(t).