Contempt Court

There is a valid court order in effect. The other person knows about the court order. The facts show a plain violation of the order. You have given the person notice of the contempt hearing and a chance to be heard. Contempt is an appropriate remedy for the violation.

Depending on the infraction, contempt of court consequences can include fines, compensatory visitation, a modification to the custody arrangement, and in some instances even jail time. In most cases, if someone is held in contempt, the court will first give them the opportunity to make amends for the violation.

Contempt typically arises when one party refuses or otherwise fails to abide by the terms of the court-approved settlement, divorce decree or other court order. If your former spouse has failed to comply with a court order, you can seek relief from the court by filing a motion to hold the other party in contempt.

Depending on the infraction, contempt of court consequences can include fines, compensatory visitation, a modification to the custody arrangement, and in some instances even jail time. In most cases, if someone is held in contempt, the court will first give them the opportunity to make amends for the violation.

Potential consequences of contempt of court in your divorce or family law case could include jail time, fines, and the installation of a restraining order. Being held in contempt can also affect your family law case or divorce, itself. You may find that a court revises an order in a way that's not favorable to you.

Depending on the infraction, contempt of court consequences can include fines, compensatory visitation, a modification to the custody arrangement, and in some instances even jail time. In most cases, if someone is held in contempt, the court will first give them the opportunity to make amends for the violation.

If a person is found to be in contempt, the court is able to impose sanctions, which may include the following: jail time (usually 1-30 days) ordering the party held in contempt to pay the money owed. ordering the party held in contempt to pay the other party's attorney's fees.

If your ex isn't following a court order, a judge will likely try to modify the agreement so that it works for the both of you. However, long-term, repeat offenders may face more serious consequences, including fines, jail time, and loss of privileges (such as custody of their child).

At the hearing, you will have to swear to tell the truth before you present your case. As the party alleging contempt, you will probably speak first. Keep your explanation of how your ex disobeyed a court order brief and only talk about the reasons you asked for the contempt action.