Select your state

Child custody

violation of custody orders

If a parent fails to follow the court’s child custody order, the other party may file a motion for contempt to bring the issue before the court.

A motion for contempt—as the name implies—is based on the uncooperative party’s contempt for the judge/court’s order. Ignoring the court’s order will have serious potential consequences, including loss of custody and payment of the other parent’s attorney fees and costs in filing the motion for contempt (coercive civil contempt).

And in some cases of repeated failures to comply with the custody order, the court may punish the uncooperative parent with jail time (criminal contempt).

In Iowa, when a parent does not comply with a court-issued child custody order, the other parent has the right to file a motion for contempt with the court. This legal action is taken to address the non-compliant parent's disregard for the court's authority and to enforce the custody arrangement. The consequences of being found in contempt can be significant. They may include a modification of custody rights, the imposition of fines, and the requirement to pay the legal fees and costs incurred by the other parent in bringing the motion. In cases where there is a pattern of non-compliance, the court may consider more severe penalties, such as jail time, under criminal contempt. These measures are intended to ensure adherence to the custody order and to uphold the best interests of the child or children involved.

Legal Articles

State Statutes

Individual & Family Legal Plan

As a LegalFix member, you'll get expert legal services from a local law firm that treats you like an important client. Don't wait—be prepared for life's inevitable legal challenges starting today. And ask your employer, credit union, or membership group about preferred pricing opportunities.

Child custody

violation of custody orders

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Iowa State Code

Iowa State Code

Child custody

violation of custody orders

Articles