Contempt of Court

Enforcement Of Missouri Court Orders

There are specific guidelines in Missouri that are used to calculate child support payments. While these guidelines are the foundation for determining payments, many people do not realize that there may be deviations from the guidelines. You need a lawyer to help determine that.

We take a team-oriented approach to working with our clients. We will take the time to explain the legal issues involved in your particular situation, so you have the information you need to make an informed decision. Given our vast experience, we can readily predict when to expect challenges and know the best strategies for overcoming complexities that may arise. You can count on our team for effective and efficient legal services that fully promote your best interests.

Our Missouri lawyers addressing contempt of court typically see this enforcement method applied when one party has failed to make a required payment to the other. Often, this will involve nonpayment of reimbursable expenses. Parenting plans typically specify that school expenses, medical expenses not covered by insurance and other costs will be split between both parents. This generally results in one parent paying the expense and then seeking reimbursement from the other for his or her share.

Unfortunately, the parent owing a duty of reimbursement does not always pay as ordered, and that failure can cost the other parent a lot of money and in fact make it difficult to meet the child's financial needs. By filing and pursuing a motion for contempt, you can access the court's enforcement power to coerce compliance with the prior orders.

Contempt of court and other enforcement actions, such as garnishment, execution or family access motions, may also be necessary in cases involving unpaid child support, a failure to pay a cash settlement amount, or refusal to adhere to child custody arrangements. We have more than 100 years of combined experience quickly resolving these family law matters.