Post-Decree Enforcement
Disputes may linger when a court order is not followed
Post-Decree Enforcement in San Francisco & the Bay Area
A Better Way to Resolve Your Divorce
Divorce may legally end a marriage, but disputes sometimes continue long after the judgment is final. When one party refuses to comply with court-ordered terms — such as child custody, visitation, or financial support — it can cause unnecessary stress and hardship. If your former spouse or co-parent is violating a court order, Holstrom, Block & Parke, APLC can help you take the proper legal steps to enforce your rights. Our San Francisco post-decree enforcement attorneys represent clients throughout the Bay Area, helping ensure that divorce and family law judgments are followed. With more than 300 years of combined family law experience and nine Certified Family Law Specialists, our team provides the strength, skill, and persistence needed to protect your family’s stability and peace of mind.
Enforcing Child Support Orders
When a California court issues a child support order, the paying parent is legally required to meet their obligation. Failure to do so can result in contempt of court, carrying both civil and criminal penalties under California Code of Civil Procedure §1218(c) — including community service, fines, or jail time.
Courts may also enforce payment through:
- Wage garnishment or bank levies
- Driver’s license or professional license suspension
- Tax refund interception
- Liens on property or other assets
If your ex-partner has fallen behind on child support or stopped paying altogether, our attorneys can help you file an enforcement action and hold them accountable while protecting your child’s financial well-being.
Enforcing Custody and Visitation Orders
Child custody and visitation agreements exist to protect children’s best interests and provide stability for both parents. When one parent repeatedly violates or ignores the agreement — for instance, by withholding visitation or relocating without permission — swift legal action may be necessary.
California law allows courts to find non-compliant parents in contempt, and California Penal Code §278.5 makes it a crime to intentionally interfere with another parent’s custodial or visitation rights. However, it’s crucial to act through proper legal channels. Engaging in “self-help” — such as keeping a child longer to make up for lost time — can backfire and result in legal consequences for you.
Our Bay Area family law attorneys can assist by:
- Filing enforcement motions with the court
- Requesting make-up parenting time
- Seeking contempt findings or sanctions
- Modifying orders when circumstances have changed
Experienced Bay Area Family Law Enforcement Attorneys
If your ex-spouse or co-parent is refusing to comply with your divorce judgment or custody order, you don’t have to face it alone. At Holstrom, Block & Parke, we understand how frustrating and emotional these situations can be — and we’re here to help you enforce your rights lawfully and effectively. Serving clients across San Francisco, Alameda, Marin, Contra Costa, and surrounding Bay Area counties, our team combines deep knowledge of California family law with compassionate, results-driven advocacy. Contact our San Francisco post-decree enforcement lawyers today for a confidential consultation and learn how we can help restore order and accountability.
