Contempt of Court

Legal Representation in the Face of Contempt Charges

A contempt action is filed when one of the parties to a family law action violates a previous order. The Court makes decisions that must be followed. The only way a person should deviate from following the Court’s word is by either appealing a case or requesting a modification. Otherwise, deviation or disregard for a Court Order can add to one’s legal woes.

There are numerous consequences that come with a contempt action. Whether you are the person requesting the court’s intervention or happen to be accused of deviating from a Court Order, you need an attorney to help you through tough times. South Atlanta Family Law Firm recognizes the significance of post-judgment actions and we are ready to represent your rights and protect your future.

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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