How do I ask the court to enforce a child support order (contempt actions)?
If the other parent disobeys the child support order, you can take them back to court. You file a Complaint for Contempt.
In a contempt case, you ask the court to decide that the other parent is in “contempt.” “Contempt” means not obeying the child support order even though you are able to.
If the court decides a parent is in contempt because they did not pay child support, the judge can force that parent to pay the money, get a job, or go to jail. This decision is a “Judgment of Contempt.”
This "how to" explains the steps you must take to enforce a child support order in court.
Child Support Guidelines Worksheet on the Court's website.
The Court Service Centers can help you fill out court forms related to child support by Zoom, phone, or in person.
Some Probate Courts have Lawyer for the Day programs. Contact the court directly to see if your court has one.
Learn more about finding a lawyer.