Enforcement of Family Court Orders

in Cleveland & Northeast Ohio

ENFORCEMENT OF ORDERS

Court orders aren’t suggestions — they’re enforceable obligations. If your former spouse or co-parent isn’t following the terms of your divorce, custody, or support order, legal action may be necessary to protect your rights and your child’s well-being.



We represent individuals across Cleveland, Independence, Akron, Westlake, Beachwood, and surrounding areas in enforcing existing family law orders through Ohio’s court system.

When Enforcement Becomes Necessary

CUSTODY & PARENTING TIME VIOLATIONS

If the other parent is refusing to follow your parenting schedule, canceling time last-minute, or denying access altogether, you have the right to enforce the court’s order.


We help you document violations and file the proper motions to restore your parenting time — and prevent future interference.

UNPAID CHILD SUPPORT

Failure to pay child support is a serious issue that can impact your child’s daily life. Ohio courts have the authority to enforce support orders through wage garnishment, tax refund interception, license suspension, and contempt proceedings.


We assist in recovering unpaid support while minimizing unnecessary delays or drama.

UNPAID SPOUSAL SUPPORT (ALIMONY)

Just like child support, court-ordered spousal support must be paid in full and on time.


We represent clients in seeking enforcement of alimony orders and guide them through the legal process to ensure compliance.

VIOLATIONS OF PROPERTY DIVISION TERMS

If your ex-spouse hasn’t transferred property, refinanced debt, or followed through with any other division of marital assets or liabilities, the court can compel compliance or impose penalties.


We help enforce property-related terms of divorce decrees with clear documentation and strategic motions.

LEGAL TOOLS FOR ENFORCEMENT

Depending on the issue, enforcement may involve:

  • Filing a motion for contempt
  • Requesting sanctions, make-up parenting time, or financial remedies
  • Pursuing wage garnishment or liens
  • Involving the Child Support Enforcement Agency (CSEA)
  • Working with law enforcement in extreme cases


We’ll help you choose the right legal tools for your situation — and prepare your case thoroughly.

MODIFICATION VS. ENFORCEMENT

If the problem is a true violation of the order, enforcement is appropriate. But if the situation has changed (e.g. job loss, relocation), modification may be a better solution.

Who We Help

We represent:

  • Parents denied parenting time by a non-compliant co-parent
  • Individuals owed back child or spousal support
  • Clients facing ongoing violations of property settlement terms
  • Anyone unsure whether enforcement or modification is the right step

OUR APPROACH

  • We document violations clearly and present compelling evidence
  • We communicate directly and firmly with opposing parties
  • We guide clients through the court’s enforcement process step by step
  • We help prevent future violations with better documentation and stronger orders

FAQs

  • What can I do if my ex isn’t following our custody order?

    You can file a motion to enforce the order. The court may award makeup parenting time, impose sanctions, or find the other parent in contempt of court.

  • How do I collect unpaid child support in Ohio?

    Support can be enforced through wage garnishment, tax refund intercepts, license suspension, or court actions. The Child Support Enforcement Agency (CSEA) or your attorney can assist.

  • What happens if someone is found in contempt of court?

    The court may impose penalties such as fines, jail time, or additional legal requirements to compel compliance with the original order.

  • Can I enforce a property division issue from my divorce?

    Yes. If your ex hasn’t transferred property, paid a required amount, or followed other terms of your divorce decree, you can ask the court to enforce those obligations.

  • Is there a deadline for enforcing a court order?

    Enforcement actions should be filed promptly. While some aspects may have time limits, others — like unpaid support — may remain enforceable for years.

Have any more questions?

I WILL GIVE YOU HONEST ADVICE.

We don’t sugarcoat the truth — we give clear, honest advice.

I WILL PROVIDE YOU WITH CLEAR PRICING.

We explain costs upfront so there are no financial surprises.

I WILL LISTEN TO YOU FIRST.

We listen first, then guide you through your legal options.

TOGETHER, WE'LL FOCUS ON YOUR FUTURE.

We focus on practical outcomes that position you for a stronger future.