When the family court issues an order in Tennessee—whether it involves child custody, visitation, child support, or spousal support—it is legally binding. Unfortunately, not everyone follows the terms of these orders. If your ex is refusing to comply, you do have legal options. At the Law Offices of Crystal Etue, PLLC, we help individuals throughout Tennessee assert and protect their rights when court orders are being ignored.

Common Types of Non-Compliance

Family court orders cover a range of matters, including:

• Child custody or visitation: An ex may deny parenting time, refuse to return the child on time, or withhold information about the child.
• Child support: Failing to make timely or full support payments is a frequent issue.
• Spousal support (alimony): Missed or partial payments can lead to financial hardship.
• Property division: One party might not turn over property as ordered.

Each of these violations can seriously disrupt your life or the well-being of your child.

Document the Violation

Start by documenting every incident of non-compliance. Keep text messages, emails, payment records, or notes detailing missed visitation. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be if court intervention becomes necessary.

Attempt to Resolve Informally

If it’s safe to do so, try discussing the matter with your ex. Sometimes, miscommunications or temporary challenges (like a job loss) are behind the non-compliance. If you can resolve the issue peacefully, it may save time and money.

File a Motion for Contempt

When informal resolution doesn’t work, the next step is filing a Motion for Contempt with the court. This tells the judge that your ex is violating a court order and asks the court to take action. Possible outcomes may include:

• Make-up parenting time
• Wage garnishment or income withholding
• Fines or even jail time for willful disobedience

Enforcement Through the Tennessee Department of Human Services

In child support cases, the Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS) may be able to help enforce orders through garnishments, license suspensions, tax refund interceptions, and other methods.

Don’t Take Matters Into Your Own Hands

It can be tempting to retaliate—such as withholding visitation if support isn't paid—but doing so could backfire. You must continue to follow the court order yourself, even if your ex isn’t. The court expects both parties to obey its rulings.

How We Can Help

At Law Offices of Crystal Etue, PLLC, we guide Tennessee clients through contempt and enforcement proceedings and represent their interests in and out of court. If your ex is not complying with a family court order, we are here to help you pursue justice and accountability.