Instead, you must go through the courts to request a change. Your ex must do the same. Failure to abide by court orders may result in a contempt of court motion.
There are several reasons why parents file contempt of court motions, including but not limited to:
- Child custody
- Visitation
- Child support
- Health insurance
- Medical bill payment
Filing a contempt of court motion
If you believe that your child’s other parent is in contempt of the court order, the first thing you need to do is file a form called Motion for Contempt.
This order does not automatically hold the other parent in contempt. Instead, it asks the parent to come to court to explain why he or she disobeyed the order in the first place. Once the court hears the explanation, it will decide whether he or she is guilty of contempt, what the appropriate punishment should be if guilty.
Hiring an attorney to file a Motion for Contempt
You do not need a lawyer to file a Motion for Contempt on your behalf, nor do you need an attorney to represent you at the hearing. However, many legal resources, including this one, highly recommend retaining the help of a qualified attorney who can help you with the process and fill out the forms appropriately.
A lawyer can also provide you with sound legal advice and ensure you do not do anything to jeopardize your case.
Editor’s Notes: i) Suisman Shapiro is physically located at 75 State Street, New London, CT 06320. Their mailing address is 2 Union Plaza, P.O. Box 1591 New London, CT 06320.
ii) As Suisman Shapiro slowly begins to expand operations in their office building once again, the staff has made painstaking efforts to assure that their public spaces and work areas are thoroughly cleaned daily. Hand sanitizer is available at each entrance to our offices, and of course, everyone is carefully practicing social distancing. Additionally, arrangements have been made for our clients to meet one-on-one with their attorney in a separate conference space. There is no need to enter the workspace or visit the reception area. Prior to your appointment, your attorney will make specific arrangements with you regarding when and where to meet.
iii) Family law attorneys at Suisman Shapiro can discuss divorce issues with you and answer questions on the subject. Visit their website or call 800-499-0145 — lines are open 24 hours a day.