What Happens If You Don’t Comply with a Family Court Order in Wisconsin?

In Wisconsin, family court orders are legally binding decisions made by a judge that address critical issues such as child custody, visitation rights, and child support. Non-compliance with these orders can lead to serious consequences. Understanding what happens if you don’t comply with a family court order in Wisconsin is crucial for anyone involved in a family law case.

When a party fails to comply with a family court order, the affected party may file a motion for enforcement. This legal document requests the court to take action against the non-compliant individual. The court has several options available to enforce the order, depending on the situation and the specific terms of the original order.

Here are some potential consequences of not complying with a family court order in Wisconsin:

1. Contempt of Court

The most common consequence for violating a family court order is being held in contempt of court. If the court finds you in contempt, you may face penalties such as fines, attorney fees for the other party, or even jail time. The court typically aims to compel compliance rather than punish, but the implications can still be severe.

2. Modification of Orders

Repeated non-compliance can lead to modifications of custody or support orders. The court may decide that the non-compliant party should no longer have custody or may alter the child support obligations to ensure compliance. This can significantly affect parenting rights and financial responsibilities.

3. Jail Time

In extreme cases, especially if an individual consistently fails to comply with child support or other financial orders, a judge may impose jail time. While this is not the most common outcome, it underscores the seriousness of adhering to court directives.

4. Wage Garnishment

If a parent fails to pay child support as ordered, the court may order wage garnishment. This means that a portion of the parent’s wages will be automatically deducted and sent to the other parent. This process ensures that child support payments are made consistently and can affect the non-compliant parent’s finances.

5. Loss of Rights

Non-compliance with custody or visitation orders can lead to the loss of parental rights. If a parent consistently denies visitation or fails to meet other obligations, the court may modify custody arrangements to give the compliant parent greater rights, potentially limiting the non-compliant parent’s time with their children.

6. Legal Fees

In many instances, the court may order the non-compliant party to pay the legal fees incurred by the other party. This can add a significant financial burden to the individual who failed to comply with the family court order.

7. Impact on Future Court Decisions

Failure to comply with family court orders can negatively impact future decisions the court makes regarding custody or support. If a parent has a history of non-compliance, the court may view them less favorably in future proceedings, affecting their chances of obtaining modifications to orders.

In conclusion, not complying with a family court order in Wisconsin can lead to serious consequences, including contempt of court, jail time, and modifications of existing orders. It is crucial to understand your rights and obligations under the law. If you are having trouble complying with an order or need assistance enforcing one, it is advisable to consult with a qualified family law attorney who can provide tailored guidance.