Court Order

What Happens if a Court Order is Ignored?

A court order is legally binding; however, in some instances, people will refuse to comply with a court order. This marks the beginning of a new set of worries for many Albertans who are in the midst of a family law dispute, and the compliant spouse may wonder what consequences might exist should the other party neglect to follow a family court order.

The Consequences of Ignoring a Court Order

In a family law matter, if a spouse is handed a court order and does not follow it, the compliant spouse must bring the alleged violation to the court’s attention. This can be a significant financial burden to the spouse raising the issue, as the compliant spouse must return to court.

The penalties against the spouse who is in breach of the court order depend on the nature of the court order and the severity of the violation, especially in family law. In Alberta, Rule 10.52 of the Alberta Rules of Court sets out specific possible punishments for a finding of civil contempt, including court costs, fines, restrictions on continuing with court actions, and ultimately imprisonment (i.e. jail).  Disobeying a court order can result in serious consequences and is meant to be followed. 

How Kirk Montoute Dawson LLP Can Help You Navigate Family Law Disputes

If you are facing a family law dispute—whether it’s related to divorce, child support, or child custody—the family law lawyers at Kirk Montoute Dawson LLP are here to help. Our team can review your unique circumstances, help you understand your options, provide clear legal guidance, and outline the next steps to protect your rights and interests. Contact us today for advice and representation tailored to your situation.

Tags: Family Law

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