The most common type of contempt in family law cases is called “coercive civil contempt.” This is when there is a party whom intentionally disobeys a court order.
Vancouver, WA family lawyers are often called upon to file a Motion for Contempt because another party is not following the court order in a divorce case.
There are several examples of behaviors that can lead to contempt. For example the Washington Law Help website lists the following:
- Violating the residential time in a parenting plan or residential schedule might be contempt. Examples: one parent refuses to allow visitation stated in the parenting plan, or one parent will not return the child to the other at the end of visitation, or one parent fails to make reasonable efforts to require a child to visit the other parent at the times stated in the parenting plan.
- Violating a restraining order.
- Failure to act (such as not paying ordered child support or spousal maintenance).
- Refusal to deliver property that was court ordered.
Family law attorneys in Vancouver, WA know that contempt orders should be used only as a last resort. Contempt is not always the best or more effective remedy. Sometimes it can make conflict more volatile.
If you need help getting an ex-spouse to comply with a court order and don’t know if filing for contempt of court is the best option, contact a qualified, experienced Vancouver, WA divorce attorney.
Lambert Law knows the Clark County Courts and can give you knowledgeable advice. Click here to read more about the services she is experienced in or call (360) 737-1473.