If your ex fails to adhere to the terms of your divorce agreement, you may wonder what you can do to protect your rights and interests. A divorce decree is a legally binding document. As such, it must be followed. If your ex chooses not to comply with all or part of the order, they can be held accountable. Please continue reading to learn the steps you can take if your ex willfully disregards orders outlined in the decree and why connecting with our dedicated Bristol County Divorce Issue Lawyers is in your best interest.
What Happens if My Spouse Defies the Divorce Agreement?
It’s important to understand that a divorce decree is a legally binding document. It sets forth the requirements of each spouse in terms of child custody, property division, child support, and spousal support after the dissolution of the marriage. Essentially, it contains pertinent information that must be followed, and if it’s not, a spouse can face serious consequences.
If your former spouse continually defies the divorce decree, understanding your legal options is crucial to ensure your rights and interests are safeguarded. Generally, the first thing you should do is file a motion with the court the enforce the orders. Once you have filed a motion, the court will hold a hearing to review the circumstances before issuing a final decision on the matter. Depending on the specifics of the case, the court may decide to hold your ex in contempt of court, which can result in steep fines and even potentially spending time behind bars.
Additionally, your former spouse could be ordered to pay you the funds they owe you. If they fail to do so, the court can garnish their wages to ensure they receive the compensation they are entitled to. In cases where your former spouse is violating the custody orders in place, the court can revoke or modify parenting time.
Should I Consult a Lawyer?
At The Law Offices of Cynthia L. Hanley, P.C., we understand these matters can be incredibly complex to navigate alone. As such, if your spouse doesn’t respect the terms of your divorce decree, it’s in your best interest to contact a compassionate Bristol County divorce issue lawyer who can help guide you through these tough times. We know what is at stake and will do everything in our power to safeguard your interests. Our legal team is prepared to pursue the legal paths necessary to protect your rights. Connect with us today to learn how we can fight for you.
