Post-Judgment Actions Attorney in Connecticut
Family law matters do not always end once a divorce or custody case is finalized. Life circumstances change, and sometimes, court orders need to be modified or enforced. Post-judgment actions address issues that arise after a divorce, custody agreement, or support order has been established. At Merino Family Law, we help clients in Connecticut navigate post-judgment modifications and enforcement actions to ensure that legal agreements remain fair and effective.
Modifications of Court Orders
A finalized court order may no longer be practical or fair due to significant life changes. In these cases, a party may seek a modification to adjust the terms of a divorce, custody, or support order. Connecticut courts allow modifications when a substantial change in circumstances can be proven. Common reasons for modification include:
- Changes in Income: If one party experiences a significant increase or decrease in income, child support or alimony payments may need to be adjusted.
- Relocation: If a parent wishes to relocate with a child, custody or visitation arrangements may need to be modified. Connecticut law requires court approval if a move would impact an existing custody order.
- Changes in a Child’s Needs: As children grow, their educational, medical, and financial needs may change, requiring adjustments to child support or custody agreements.
- Health Issues: A parent or child developing a serious health condition may necessitate changes to support, custody, or visitation terms.
To request a modification, the party seeking the change must file a motion with the court and provide evidence supporting the need for an adjustment. At Merino Family Law, we assist clients in both pursuing and contesting modifications to ensure that legal agreements reflect current realities.
Enforcement of Court Orders
When one party fails to comply with a court order—whether for child support, alimony, or custody—the affected party may need to take legal action to enforce compliance. Common enforcement issues include:
- Failure to Pay Child Support or Alimony: If a former spouse does not meet their financial obligations, enforcement actions can be taken, including wage garnishment, asset seizures, or contempt of court proceedings.
- Violation of Custody or Visitation Orders: If a parent refuses to follow the agreed-upon custody or visitation schedule, the court can enforce the order or impose penalties.
- Non-Compliance with Property Division Orders: If a party fails to transfer assets or comply with the terms of a divorce settlement, legal action may be necessary to enforce compliance.
Enforcement actions can involve filing a motion for contempt, which may result in penalties, fines, or other legal consequences for the non-compliant party. Our firm helps clients take appropriate legal steps to ensure that court orders are upheld.
Contempt Proceedings
When a party willfully disobeys a court order, they may be held in contempt of court. Contempt proceedings can lead to fines, wage garnishment, or even jail time in extreme cases. If you are facing a non-compliant co-parent or former spouse, we can help you file a motion for contempt and seek appropriate legal remedies.
Contact Merino Family Law
If you need to modify or enforce a court order, Merino Family Law is here to help. We provide experienced representation to ensure that legal agreements remain fair and enforceable. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your legal options.