Court orders are not suggestions. When a parent won’t follow a child-support order or parenting plan, Alabama law provides enforcement tools—from income withholding to contempt. Here’s how enforcement typically works, what proof to gather, and when to push for stronger remedies.
Start with Documentation
- Payment ledger: Bank records, receipts, portal screenshots.
- Missed-visit log: Dates/times, messages, witnesses.
- Proof of notice: Texts/emails showing clear communication and opportunities to comply.
Child Support Collection Tools
- Income withholding: Employer deducts support from paychecks.
- Tax refund intercepts, license suspensions, liens, and other state tools (often via DHR).
- Interest or late penalties where allowed.
- Contempt: If nonpayment is willful, courts can order catch-up schedules, fees, and, in severe cases, jail time.
Enforcing Parenting Time
- Make-up time for missed visits.
- Detailed exchange rules (neutral locations, third-party pickups).
- No-disparagement or communication boundaries (use of parenting apps).
- Contempt findings if violations are deliberate.
When Contempt Makes Sense
Contempt is suitable when:
- The order is clear and specific (dates, times, amounts).
- The violation is willful, not just a misunderstanding.
- You can show you tried to resolve the issue reasonably.
What to Expect in Court
- Provide clean exhibits and a short, factual timeline.
- Ask for precise remedies (e.g., $X arrears at $Y/mo; make-up time on dates A/B; attorney’s fees).
- Judges often build step-up consequences: a clear warning today, stronger penalties if it happens again.
Prevention Going Forward
- Use wage withholding and parenting-app messaging so records are automatic.
- Spell out holiday schedules and exchange windows to reduce gray areas.
- If life circumstances have changed, consider a modification rather than letting violations pile up.
Need help enforcing your order—or defending against a contempt claim? Visit Family Law or Contact us for a plan of action.
