Enforcement

After a family law order is entered in Florida, such as a divorce decree, child support order, parental responsibility order, or timesharing plan, both parties are expected to follow the terms of the agreement or judgment. When one party fails to comply, enforcement may be necessary to protect your rights and the interests of your family.

Family law enforcement is the process of asking the court to require compliance with an existing order. It provides legal options when a former spouse, parent, or other party is not following what the court ordered. Enforcement actions help reinforce that court orders related to financial support, parenting arrangements, and other obligations must be followed.

Common Enforcement Issues

Enforcement matters can involve a variety of concerns, including:

• Child Support: When payments are late, incomplete, or stopped.
• Alimony or Spousal Support: When court ordered support is not paid as required.
• Timesharing and Parental Responsibility: When a parent does not follow the parenting schedule or agreed decision making responsibilities.
• Custody and Visitation: When access to a child is blocked or interfered with.
• Property Division: When assets or debts are not distributed or handled as ordered.

Each of these situations can affect daily routines, finances, and relationships with children. Addressing enforcement concerns sooner rather than later can help prevent issues from becoming more serious.

How Enforcement Works

In Florida, enforcement of court orders is typically handled by the same court that entered the original order. The process may include:

• Filing a Motion for Contempt or Enforcement: This asks the court to review whether the order has been violated.
• Notice to the Other Party: The motion must be properly served so the other party has an opportunity to respond.
• Court Hearing: A judge reviews the evidence, hears from both sides, and determines whether enforcement is appropriate and what remedies may apply.

The goal of enforcement proceedings is to restore compliance with the court’s order. In many cases, the filing of a motion encourages cooperation before a full hearing is required.

What You Can Do When Compliance Fails

If the other party is not following a court order, you may consider:

• Keeping records of missed payments or violations
• Communicating concerns in writing
• Filing a motion for enforcement or contempt
• Asking the court to modify or clarify the order if the language is unclear

Clear documentation helps the court understand how the order has not been followed and what relief may be appropriate.

Experience You Can Trust

At Goodblatt · Leo, we help clients take appropriate legal steps when court orders are not followed. Based on years of experience handling family law matters, including enforcement of support, timesharing, and custody orders, our attorneys guide you through each step of the process in a straightforward and practical way.

We focus on clear communication, realistic planning, and practical solutions. Whether you need help preparing a motion, presenting evidence at a hearing, or working toward an agreement that restores compliance, we are here to help guide you through the process while keeping your goals and your family’s needs in focus.