A custody dispute that involves your kids can be among the most emotionally difficult experiences a parent like you can endure, especially when one party fails to comply with a court-ordered custody agreement. This can be a missed visitation, denial of parenting time, or interference with a co-parent’s rights. These violations can create stress and instability for both the parents and the child.

If you find yourself in this difficult situation, a Fort Mitchell child custody enforcement lawyer can help you take the steps needed to ensure compliance with custody orders. An experienced custody attorney can help protect your rights and the well-being of your child, all while navigating the complexities of the legal system. At BFZ Law, we recognize the importance of consistent adherence to custody orders to maintain stability in a child’s life.

Common Custody Violations

Child custody enforcement becomes necessary when one parent will not follow an existing court order. Under Commonwealth law, parents in Fort Mitchell can seek legal enforcement through the courts if the agreed-upon custody arrangements are not honored. These violations can look like many things, including:

  • The denial of visitation rights
  • The failure to return the child on time
  • Possible interference with lawful custody

Commonwealth law allows parents to pursue enforcement through civil contempt proceedings. In severe cases, penalties can include fines or even jail time for repeated violations. Additionally, if the violations negatively impact the child’s well-being, the court may consider modifying the existing custody arrangements.

How to File a Motion for Contempt

When a parent is not complying with a custody order, filing a motion for contempt is a powerful legal tool to address the situation. The motion accuses the violating parent of knowingly and willfully disregarding the court order. If the court determines that the parent is in contempt, there are many possible outcomes, depending on how egregious the violations are. These outcomes can range from monetary fines to imprisonment for repeated offenses.

To file a motion for contempt, the legal guardian must provide clear evidence that the other parent has violated the custody order on multiple occasions. This can include documentation of missed visitations, communication records, or any other proof that demonstrates a pattern of non-compliance. A skilled child custody enforcement attorney in Fort Mitchell can help gather this evidence and present it in a way that strengthens your case.

Violations Leading to Custody Modifications

Frequent violations of custody agreements can lead the court to reassess the original terms of the order. If one parent consistently interferes with the other’s lawful custody rights, the court may decide to change the terms to better protect the child’s best interests. Courts always prioritize the well-being of the child in making custody decisions. If the court finds that a parent’s behavior is harmful or disruptive, it may grant a modification to create a more stable environment for the child.

Call a Fort Mitchell Attorney for Help Enforcing Your Child Custody Agreement

If your co-parent is not abiding by your court-ordered custody agreement, a Fort Mitchell child custody enforcement lawyer can help you take legal action. With many decades of experience supporting families throughout the area of Northern Kentucky, our dedicated team at BFZ Law has been advocating for clients since the 1970s. For compassionate, yet strong legal representation, contact an attorney at BFZ Law to discuss your options to ensure your custody order is respected and upheld.

Busald Funk Zevely PSC

Busald Funk Zevely PSC
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