A custody order isn’t just a personal decision; it is a legal agreement enforced by the court. When one parent fails to follow a child custody order, a Bellevue child custody enforcement lawyer can help enact legal action to resolve the matter. 

Our team of skilled child custody attorneys at Twyford Law Office can help you understand your legal options and represent you during mediation or court proceedings. 

Consequences of Violating a Child Custody Order

It’s not uncommon for one parent to fail to follow the requirements of a child custody order. If a parent violates a custody order, they could face fines and lose custody rights. Our child custody enforcement lawyers in Bellevue can provide guidance and legal support in such cases.

A child custody order is a legal agreement approved by a judge to provide children with a stable and healthy environment. When a parent breaks custody terms, they can impact their child’s emotional and mental health. The situation often gets worse when parents confront each other about the problem. No matter a parent’s reasons for not following a custody order, the issue should be resolved within the legal system.

A parent who violates a custody order can face various types of legal consequences. Depending on the situation, there are several actions parties on both sides of a custody order can take to reach a resolution. An experienced Bellevue child custody enforcement attorney at Twyford Law Office can help a parent determine which route is best for them and their family.

Documenting and Proving Non-Compliance

No matter what legal actions a parent intends to take, proving non-compliance is crucial for presenting a solid case. Documentation of non-compliance can include records of missed visits, relevant emails or text messages, witness statements, or other records of poor behavior.  

Filing a Motion for Contempt of Court

When a parent has evidence showing that the other parent has violated an existing custody order, they can file a motion for contempt of court. The process includes presenting proof of the violation and a court decision based on the severity of the violation. The court may set up future hearings to monitor compliance with the new child custody agreement to avoid future violations.

Using Mediation or Arbitration

Mediation and arbitration are alternatives to court proceedings that enable a neutral third party to help resolve the dispute. Mediation is the most informal of the two processes and requires parents to work together to find a solution. Arbitration is more like a court proceeding but less formal, though the decisions of an arbitrator can be binding.

Modifying a Custody Order

When non-compliance results from changes to a parent’s lifestyle, health issues, or other unpredictable circumstances, the child custody order may need to be modified. To modify an existing agreement, one parent must file a petition and motion with the court and prove a significant change has occurred that warrants a parental plan modification. 

Our Bellevue Attorneys Can Help Enforce Your Child Custody Order

A child custody order is a legal agreement. When the order is not properly upheld, seeking help from a Bellevue child custody enforcement lawyer is your best option. The attorneys at Twyford Law Office have substantial experience handling custody disputes and non-compliance with custody orders.

In any child custody case, we take immediate action to prioritize the child’s best interests. If a child is in immediate danger, emergency measures can be taken. If you’re facing an issue regarding non-compliance with a child custody agreement, we can help you take legal action to resolve the issue quickly. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.