Contempt

Contempt Action Lawyers in Stockbridge, GA

A contempt action is filed when one of the parties to a family law action violates a previous court order. The Court’s rulings are legally binding and must be followed. The only permissible way to alter or challenge a court order is through an appeal or a formal modification request. Otherwise, failing to comply with a court directive can result in significant legal consequences.

In the realm of family law, strict adherence to court orders is essential. When an individual disregards these directives, it can lead to a contempt action in family court. Whether you are seeking to enforce a court order or defending against a contempt allegation, understanding the legal process and potential consequences is critical. For personalized guidance, reach out to our experienced contempt lawyer in Stockbridge, GA by filling out our online form or calling 404-494-0027.

What Reasons Constitute Filing a Contempt Action?

In Georgia, there are numerous situations that call for the need to file a contempt action. Contempt actions can be filed if:

• The other parent is withholding the children or not allowing you to exercise your visitation as ordered
• The other party has failed to pay child support as ordered
• You have not received spousal support as ordered
• The other party has failed to turn over property as ordered
• The other party has failed to perform other acts ordered by the Court

Contempt actions may be resolved either by an agreement of the parties or by a judge after a hearing. Evidence is key in contempt cases. It is important that you keep accurate records and document everything that the other party has failed or neglected to do in violation of the Court Order.

If a judge is forced to hear the case, they have some discretion on how to resolve these disputes. Most judges will give the offending party an opportunity to cure the contempt prior to resorting to harsher penalties such as jail time and/or awarding the other party attorney’s fees and court costs.

Consequences for a Contempt of Court

As stated above, a person found in contempt of court is often at the mercy of the judge’s discretion. First and foremost, the person in question faces incarceration and fines if they do not comply. In addition, if the matter is regarding child support or alimony, the court can take a number of steps to recover the amount owed and ensure that the future amount will be paid. This can include:

• Garnishing wages
• Interception of tax refunds
• Suspension or revocation of driver’s license
• Suspension or revocation of occupational or professional license

Contact our Georgia Contempt Lawyers at South Atlanta Family Law Today!

For contempt actions for custody, the court can subject the custodial parent to incarceration and fines if they do not comply. Visitation rights can be addressed, but custody cannot. Custody issues would require a separate action to be filed based on the issues that brought the contempt action or other changes in circumstance.

It is important to discuss your situation with an attorney. Whether you are the one filing a contempt action or the subject of one, we are here to protect your rights and help you through this tough matter. Get started by calling South Atlanta Family Law Firm in Stockbridge, GA at 404-494-0027.