CLICK HERE FOR A CONSULTATION Laurence J. Brock is a California State Bar Certified Family Law Specialist
Ontario Enforcement of Custody Orders Lawyer
Ensuring Compliance with Custody and Support Orders
When a court order for child custody, parenting time, or child support is not being followed, legal action may be necessary to enforce the terms outlined by the court. A non-compliant parent who refuses to follow a valid family court order may face serious consequences—including fines, wage garnishment, driver’s license suspension, or even contempt of court.
At The Law Office of Laurence J. Brock, we help parents seek enforcement of court orders to protect their legal rights and the best interests of their children. Whether you’re a custodial parent struggling with missed visitation or a parent seeking to enforce unpaid child support, our experienced legal team can guide you through California’s enforcement process.
How to Enforce a Custody Order in California
Custody and parenting time orders are legally binding, and both parents are required to comply. If one parent fails to follow the custody order, the other parent can petition the family court to enforce it.
Legal enforcement options include:
- Filing a Request for Order (RFO) with the court
- Seeking court-ordered make-up parenting time
- Filing a contempt motion for repeated violations
- Requesting a modification if circumstances have significantly changed
In serious cases, the court may impose sanctions or modify custody to better support the child’s stability and well-being.
Enforcing Child Support and Spousal Support Orders
In California, if a parent fails to pay child support or spousal support, enforcement can be pursued through the Department of Child Support Services (DCSS) or by filing a direct court action.
Enforcement measures may include:
- Wage garnishment or income withholding orders
- Bank levies or seizure of tax refunds
- Driver’s or professional license suspension
- Filing for contempt of court, which may result in fines or jail time
Support orders are enforceable under California law, and noncompliance can have serious legal and financial consequences.
What to Do If the Other Parent Violates a Custody or Visitation Order
If the other parent fails to follow court-ordered parenting time, it’s important to document each violation carefully. Courts favor clear evidence when evaluating enforcement motions.
Helpful steps include:
- Keep records of missed visits, text messages, or failed exchanges
- Try to resolve the issue through communication or mediation
- File a Request for Order with the court to compel compliance
- Request modifications if ongoing interference disrupts the child’s well-being
A family court judge may impose sanctions, adjust parenting schedules, or even shift legal custody to the more compliant parent in severe cases.
How Our Family Lawyers Can Help
At The Law Office of Laurence J. Brock, our family lawyers have extensive experience enforcing custody, visitation, and support orders in California courts. We help parents navigate complex post-judgment matters and act quickly when legal orders are being ignored.
We assist with:
- Enforcing child custody, visitation, and child support orders
- Filing contempt or enforcement motions in family court
- Seeking modifications based on repeated violations or changes in circumstances
- Representing you in court hearings to uphold your parental rights
If your child’s well-being or financial support is being jeopardized, our team is ready to act.
Get Legal Support for Custody and Support Order Enforcement
If you’re facing enforcement issues in California, prompt legal action may be required to protect your rights and your child’s best interests. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you through the legal process and pursue compliance with all family court orders.
Learn more about how an Ontario Enforcement of Custody Orders Lawyer can support your case. Call The Law Office of Laurence J. Brock at (909) 466-7661 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward resolving enforcement issues.
FAQs About Enforcing Custody and Support Orders in California
1. What can I do if the other parent is not following the custody order?
You can file a motion in family court to enforce the order. The court may grant make-up time or impose sanctions on the non-compliant parent.
2. How can I enforce child support payments in California?
The California Department of Child Support Services (DCSS) can assist with wage garnishment, property liens, and other legal tools to recover unpaid support.
3. What are the consequences of not following a custody or support order?
Violators may face penalties such as fines, license suspension, and even contempt charges, which can include jail time for serious or repeated offenses.
4. Can a custody order be modified if one parent refuses to comply?
Yes. Courts may modify custody or visitation arrangements if it’s shown that noncompliance is ongoing and not in the child’s best interest.
5. How long does the enforcement process take in family court?
It depends on the nature of the violation and court scheduling. Some support enforcement actions, like wage garnishment, can occur quickly; custody violations may require formal hearings.
