After going through a difficult and long family court process, the last thing you want is to have go back in front of the judge. A party’s non-compliance with a court order, however, could force you return to court. This can occur when someone refuses to comply with court orders related to family law or divorce matters, such as child custody, child support, alimony, or property division. Contempt actions essentially allow you to ask the court to compel someone’s compliance with a prior order. If you suspect that a family court order is being violated, you should contact an attorney immediately.
Procedures for Enforcing Court Orders in Montgomery County, Maryland and Prince George’s County, Maryland
In Maryland, we initiate the enforcement process by filing a motion in the appropriate court, explaining the non-compliant party’s actions or failures to act. Whether it’s a matter of child support, custody, visitation, or other divorce agreement aspects, we handle it with precision.
When a party refuses to comply with a court order related to family law or divorce, it’s crucial to take appropriate legal action rather than resorting to unwise decisions that could backfire. Instead, consider hiring an experienced attorney to help you address the issue in court, allowing a judge to impose sanctions on the non-compliant party.
Here’s how we can assist you:
- Filing a Motion: We will file a motion with the court, explaining the other party’s non-compliance or violations of the court order. This is the first step in seeking resolution.
- Addressing Various Violations: Most violations of divorce orders revolve around three primary areas: child support, custody, and property distribution. These violations can encompass issues like failure to pay child support, hindering the other party’s access to their children, or disputes regarding property, debt allocation, or alimony.
- Legal Consequences in Maryland: In Maryland, failure to pay child support or comply with a visitation order can lead to fines, imprisonment, and potential attorney fees and costs. The court has the authority to impose additional penalties depending on the specific circumstances. For example, if one parent wrongfully interferes with the other parent’s visitation rights, the court can establish a new visitation schedule and order the payment of attorney fees. Jail time and fines may also be imposed.
- Addressing Relocation: Sometimes, a parent may relocate due to job changes, personal reasons, or a refusal to adhere to a court order. Such moves can complicate the enforcement of child-related court orders. In such cases, it may be necessary to register a judgment or decree in another state, typically where the child currently resides. After registration, we can initiate the enforcement process.
- Enforcement Actions: Enforcement actions can involve various measures, including the suspension or revocation of driving privileges or professional licenses for the non-compliant party. Often, parties seeking judicial intervention to enforce a judgment are eligible to recover attorney’s fees and related costs, subject to the judge’s discretion.
Whether you need assistance enforcing a custody order, child support order judgment of divorce, we can help.
Don’t Face Non-Compliance Alone
Going through a divorce or family court process is already challenging, and dealing with a former spouse or partner who refuses to follow court orders can add significant stress. However, you don’t have to face this situation alone. The experienced attorneys at our Maryland Family Law firm are here to help you every step of the way.
To schedule a consultation and discuss your specific case, please contact us at (301) 778-9950 or email us at contact@lmwlegal.com. Your rights matter, and we are committed to helping you enforce them.
