Post-Divorce Issues Such as Contempt Actions

When you go through a divorce proceeding in the state of Alabama it is a nice feeling when the divorce becomes final, but it is important to make sure you are not lulled into a false sense of security. The terms of the divorce are subject to modification over time, and in some cases you may have to address some unpleasant post divorce issues that warrant the filing of contempt actions.

The most common reason why a contempt action is filed pursuant to a divorce proceeding is for a failure to pay court ordered child support. This is an enormous problem in our society, and the statistics surrounding the matter are sobering to say the least. Just half of the child support payments that have been ordered in the United States are paid in full, and in 25% of the cases not a single cent has been paid.

Failing to pay a traffic fine is a defiant act, and it can bring some significant consequences along with it including a possible warrant and a license suspension depending on the severity of the charge. But the delinquent party could reason in his or her own mind that nobody is being damaged by the failure to pay the fine.

This logic does not hold up when it comes to child support. An innocent minor is doing without as a result of the negligent behavior of his or her parent. The lack of resource hurts the child, and if he or she is old enough to understand the matter is also emotionally hurtful to think that your father or mother is unwilling to help support you.

People who are owed child support can file a contempt action forcing the delinquent obligor to appear before the court.. The penalties for contempt can include jail time, and this can be the incentive that some people need to bring their arrears current.

If you are interested in legal advice about post divorce issues such as contempt actions, contact a Mobile AL family lawyer to arrange for a free consultation.