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What does it mean to be “held in contempt” by the court?

Homepage > Articles > What does it mean to be "held in contempt" by the court?
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What does it mean to be “held in contempt” by the court?

The Probate and Family Court in Massachusetts has the authority to enforce temporary orders and judgments.

A party (Plaintiff or Defendant)  who violates or disobeys a court order risks being held in contempt by the court. This includes failing to pay alimony or child support or refusal to comply with a parenting schedule ordered by the court.

There are two types of contempt, civil and criminal. The purpose of civil contempt is to act as a  remedial step in enforcing compliance with a court order.

In the event one party is not following a court order, the other party can file a Complaint for Contempt. This process requires the initiating party to provide a valid court order, show the defendant has knowledge of the order, and provide evidence that the defendant is willfully disobeying the order.

A criminal contempt, on the other hand, is a tool to punish the defiant party. Someone found guilty of criminal contempt may face jail time.

Either party can file a complaint for contempt to address non-compliance with any order, including temporary orders and final judgments.

Whether you wish to file a Complaint for Contempt or have been served with notice of a hearing, our office can assist you in court. Contact us today to discuss your legal rights.

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    25 Kenoza Avenue
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    Phillips, Gerstein & Channen, LLP is a law firm in Haverhill, Massachusetts. Our firm represents clients from Massachusetts cities throughout Merrimack Valley including Andover, North Andover, Boston, Methuen, Newburyport, Lawrence, Gloucester, Merrimac, Amesbury, Lowell, Groveland, West Newbury, Georgetown, and Rowley, and New Hampshire cities including Salem and Plaistow. We represent clients in Essex County, Middlesex County, and Suffolk County in Massachusetts and Rockingham County and Hillsborough County in New Hampshire.

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