Massachusetts Family Court Modifications And Enforcement
Last updated on November 20, 2025
Family court orders only work when both parties follow them. Sometimes people ignore court orders for custody, support or property division. At Ohlson & Ohlson, Attorneys at Law, our attorneys help enforce existing orders and modify them when life changes for families in Middlesex, Suffolk and Essex counties.
When Someone Breaks Court Orders
Courts take order violations seriously. We file complaints for contempt when the other party goes against clear court orders. You must prove violations with clear and convincing evidence to win these cases. Common contempt violations include:
- Property division noncompliance: Refusing to transfer assets or pay settlement amounts
- Financial order violations: Not paying support or hiding income sources
- Custody arrangement breaches: Blocking visitation or violating custody schedules
- Support payment failures: Missing child support or alimony payments
Each violation type requires different legal approaches and evidence to prove your case.
Consequences For Ignoring Orders
Judges have many tools to punish contempt violations. They can set financial penalties that hurt the violating party’s wallet. Courts may also modify existing orders to prevent future violations.
Custody violations can result in restricted parental rights or supervised visitation. Financial contempt cases often require the guilty party to pay your legal fees on top of other penalties.
Changing Orders When Life Changes
Life circumstances change after divorce or custody orders. We file modification complaints to change child custody, support or alimony based on substantial changes in your situation.
Child support modifications often involve income changes or guideline updates. Alimony modifications are more complex and depend on the specific type of alimony order you have.
Protect Your Family Court Rights
Court orders mean nothing without proper enforcement. Life changes also require legal updates to existing orders. At Ohlson & Ohlson, Attorneys at Law, we’re ready to fight for you. Call us at 781-214-7398 or access this contact form. We offer free consultations. We help families throughout Middlesex, Suffolk and Essex counties with all enforcement and modification needs.