A court order is meant to provide structure and stability in your life, but circumstances often change after a divorce or custody judgment is issued. At Holmes Legal Group, we help clients across Maine address post-judgment matters—from modifying custody to enforcing child support—to ensure that legal arrangements remain fair, workable, and in the best interests of your family.
What Are Post-Judgment Matters?
Post-judgment cases arise when an existing court order no longer meets the needs of the parties involved, or when one party is not following the terms of the order. These matters often involve:
- Custody and visitation changes due to relocation, a child’s evolving needs, or a parent’s circumstances,
- Child support or spousal support modifications based on job changes, financial shifts, or health concerns,
- Enforcement actions when a parent refuses parenting time or fails to pay support,
- Contempt proceedings for willful disobedience of a clear court order.
Motion to Modify
If your situation has significantly changed, you may be eligible to file a Motion to Modify. Courts require proof of a substantial, ongoing change in circumstances. Common reasons include:
- A new job, job loss, or major change in income,
- A parent’s relocation or change in living arrangements,
- A child’s medical, educational, or developmental needs evolving,
- Changes in parenting time or a parent’s ability to provide care.
We help parents and families present strong evidence for modifications that support the child’s best interests and reflect new realities.
Motion to Enforce
When one party refuses to comply with an existing order, a Motion to Enforce can compel compliance. These motions may address:
- Missed or partial child support payments,
- Failure to pay spousal support,
- Consistent refusal of parenting time or visitation,
- Failure to transfer property or assets as required.
The court may order corrective measures, such as make-up parenting time, wage garnishment, or repayment schedules.
Motion for Contempt
For serious or repeated violations, a Motion for Contempt may be necessary. To succeed, you must prove:
- A clear and lawful court order exists,
- The other party had the ability to comply,
- The violation was willful and intentional.
Contempt findings may result in fines, attorney’s fees, and in extreme cases, jail time. We help clients pursue or defend against contempt motions with thorough preparation and advocacy.
Why Post-Judgment Representation Matters
Post-judgment conflicts can be just as stressful—or more stressful—than the original case. Having an experienced attorney ensures:
- Strong advocacy in negotiations and hearings,
- Careful legal analysis to determine the best course of action,
- Protection of your rights and your child’s best interests,
- Clear communication and practical guidance throughout the process.
Take the Next Step
If your circumstances have changed or your court order is not being followed, schedule a consultation with Holmes Legal Group today. We will evaluate your situation, explain your options, and help you move forward with confidence.