Ex Parte Ballard

McKAY, Justice.

This is an original habeas corpus proceeding brought by relator Billy Glenn Ballard (Ballard or relator) seeking his discharge from the custody of the Van Zandt County Sheriff.

On June 7, 1978, Judge Thomas Crofts of the 86th Judicial District Court of Van Zandt County granted relator a divorce from Judy Wanda Ballard (now Foster) and named relator managing conservator of their three children. Foster, as possessory conservator, was given reasonable visitation rights. Approximately two years later, on March 10, 1980, the 86th District Court ordered Foster’s visitation rights…