Contempt is a willful or intentional violation of a Court Order when the person violating the Order has the ability to comply. A person who does not pay alimony or child support or other obligations may be held in contempt by the Family Court. Contempt punishes this person and “twists their arm” into following the Order. Additionally, obligations that are not support-oriented are also enforceable through the Family Court by the contempt power. For instance withholding child visitation from a parent who has a Court Order requiring visitation can be a contemptible offense.
If a person is found to be in contempt the Court may enter sanctions as follows:
1. A fine not less than $300.00 and not more than $1,500.00;
2. Sentence up to 300 hours of public service;
3. Jail for a period not to exceed one (1) year for failing to
comply with the order;
4. Fees and costs of other party.
Get Help From Our Spartanburg Family Lawyers
The Court may order one or any combination of the above sanctions. If you have a question as it relates to contempt actions or family law, call the Spartanburg family law lawyers at Holland & Usry toll free at 888-230-1841 to schedule a consultation to discuss your case.
