Enforcement

The Court has the power to enforce its orders. The most common form of enforcement is contempt. A finding of contempt subjects a party to jail, fines, and probation. Both visitation and child support orders can be enforced with the filing of a motion to enforce; service upon the offending party; and a hearing before the court.

If a parent is found in contempt for not surrendering a child for visitation, the Court can also order additional periods of possession to "make up" for lost periods of possession.

In addition to contempt, there are additional remedies for collecting unpaid child support. The law provides for liens against property; interception of tax refunds; seizure of passports; suspension of driver’s licenses; judgments; credit bureau reports; and criminal prosecution.

The Court also has the power to enforce property orders. Most enforcement actions involving the delivery of property must be filed within two years of the signed order.