Contempt of Court in Family Law Cases

While the legal term contempt is common in many different types of cases, it can be used differently when referring to family law cases. Contempt of court is a term that allows a judge to punish an individual that is hindering the administration of justice. As any divorce attorney for men will tell you, being in contempt of court is relevant to family law cases, and it’s important to understand all the various meanings.

Contempt of court can include things like failing to adhere to court mandates such as child support, visitation time or alimony payments. If you or a former spouse are ignoring court orders, a judge could find you in contempt of court.

It’s important to have a divorce attorney for men that can help explain the different types of content. In Florida, you can be in civil or criminal contempt of court. If you are suspected of criminal contempt, a “show cause” hearing is usually had evidence is presented to show the party is not responsible for contempt. There is also direct and indirect contempt of court. Direct contempt of court occurs physically in the courtroom, while indirect would happen outside of court.

In a civil contempt, a court ruling is made that shows an offending party had the ability to adhere to the court’s ruling but chose not to. This can be remedied by acting to fix the contempt. For example, a spouse that owes child support could pay back the amount owed and not face the consequences associated.

If your spouse has violated their court order, they may be held in contempt of court. It’s important to have a divorce attorney for men on your side that can advocate for your rights. Call the lawyers of In Law We Trust today for a confidential consultation.