Contempt of court refers not only to the open display of disrespect or disruptive behavior in court, but it also refers to the penalty when a person is found to be in civil contempt. In order for a person to be found in civil contempt, it must be shown that:
- There is a clear and unequivocal order by the court,
- There was a clear and undoubted violation or failure to follow such order, and
- That the defendant had the ability to comply with the order.
It is important to be aware that the judge can make a variety of orders. In Massachusetts, each instance of contempt can be punished by a jail sentence. If you believe that the other party in your divorce case is guilty of contempt, or if you’re facing contempt proceedings yourself, contact us for reliable advice and representation.
Complaints for contempt can also be used to help enforce the terms of temporary child support or spousal support, financial disclosure obligations, and any other interim order of the Family Court judge. They can also be used in post-divorce enforcement actions, such as those concerning a failure to pay child support in arrears or cooperate with parenting-related issues, using the children to pass messages to the other parent, or involving the children in contested divorce issues can also be covered by contempt orders.
For representation in court about any aspect of your post-divorce enforcement action, call (800) 910-DIVORCE or contact us for a no-obligation consultation at any of our offices in Norwood, Woburn, Worcester, Springfield, and Plymouth. |