Enforcement of Divorce Decrees in Connecticut
What do you do when your former spouse does not comply with the divorce decree? How about if your ex accuses you of failing to comply with the divorce decree? How does Connecticut handle enforcement of divorce decrees?
Law Offices of Daiga G. Osis · Fairfield, Connecticut
Divorce Decree Enforcement and Defense
203.254.1215 · E-mail
A divorce decree sets forth the final orders of the court and is a legally binding document. If either spouse does not obey its terms, that person may be held in contempt of court. Contempt of court judgments can carry stiff financial penalties, and the person found in contempt may be required to pay the other spouse's attorney's fees.
Divorce decree enforcement questions arise in several different contexts including:
- Failure to pay child support: Parents who fail to pay child support may be ordered to pay a lump sum of back payments, could be ordered to go to jail until the amount is paid or could have their driver's license or professional license suspended. If you are behind on child support payments, it is absolutely critical to contact an experienced family law attorney who can help negotiate a payment plan with your former spouse.
- Interference with parenting time: Just like a child support order or agreement, a parenting agreement is a court order, and therefore, a legally binding document. Both parties must comply with the order, unless a very good reason exists for not doing so. As an example, your failure to pay child support is not a legally valid reason for the custodial parent to prevent you from spending scheduled time with your children. If your child's other parent interferes with a parenting time agreement, you can bring a contempt of court action.
- Asset division: After a divorce, one or both spouses may refuse to comply with an agreement or court order to sell or give up certain marital property. If your former spouse fails to comply with the divorce agreement or court order regarding the division of marital property, you can file a motion to compel your ex to take the required action.
The enforcement of divorce decrees can be a complex legal process, and the help of a knowledgeable divorce lawyer can be invaluable. Consult a Connecticut divorce attorney with more than 27 years of experience — schedule your free consultation with Attorney Daiga G. Osis today. Call 203.254.1215 or send an e-mail.
