- 970-236-2563
- info@scurlockfamilylaw.com
- 242 Linden Street Fort Collins, CO 80524
Finalizing a divorce or parenting case does not always mean the legal challenges are over. Circumstances change, financial situations shift, and sometimes one party fails to follow the terms of a court order. When an existing divorce decree or parenting plan is no longer working, or the other party is not meeting their legal obligations, you may need help enforcing or modifying your court orders.
At Scurlock Family Law, we help individuals and families in Fort Collins and throughout Larimer County navigate contempt proceedings, parenting time disputes, enforcement actions, and post-decree modifications.
Court orders are legally binding, and both parties are generally expected to follow their terms. Unfortunately, disagreements and noncompliance can arise after a divorce or custody case is finalized. Colorado law provides different tools depending on the type of violation, and choosing the right one can make a significant difference in the outcome.
Contempt of court may occur when someone knowingly fails to comply with a court order. Common issues include:
When a parent is not following the parenting time schedule, Colorado law provides a specific process: a Motion Concerning Parenting Time Disputes. This motion is designed for parenting time problems. Depending on the circumstances, the court may order remedies such as make-up parenting time, changes to the parenting plan, parenting classes or counseling, or payment of attorney fees and costs. In appropriate cases, the court may also consider more serious sanctions.
If your former spouse is not following a court order, or you have been accused of violating one, understanding your legal options is essential. Our team can help you evaluate the circumstances, review relevant documentation, and determine which enforcement approach fits your situation.
Divorce agreements and parenting plans are based on circumstances that existed at a particular point in time. As life changes, those original arrangements may no longer meet your family’s needs. A new job, changes in income, relocation, or evolving needs of your children can all create reasons to revisit existing court orders.
Colorado law allows certain court orders to be modified when specific legal requirements are met. Depending on the circumstances, modifications may involve:
Parenting time changes. Work schedules, school needs, relocation, and changes in a child’s circumstances may make adjustments to parenting time necessary.
Decision-making responsibilities. Changes in family dynamics or other significant circumstances may justify revisiting how important decisions about a child are made.
Child support modifications. Changes in income, parenting time, childcare expenses, or other financial factors may affect child support obligations.
Spousal maintenance modifications. Significant financial changes may provide grounds to request an adjustment to an existing maintenance order, depending on the terms of the order and applicable law.
Other divorce decree modifications. Certain provisions of a divorce decree may require enforcement or modification as circumstances evolve.
Led by attorney Bronwyn Scurlock, licensed in Colorado since 2005, our firm focuses on family law matters. Our experienced team of women, including a Licensed Legal Paraprofessional (LLP), is committed to helping clients resolve post-divorce legal challenges. Additionally, we recognize that every situation is different, and our overarching goal is to provide legal guidance that fully considers your circumstances, your financial interests, and your children’s well-being.
We understand that returning to court can be stressful. We explain the legal process in straightforward language, discuss your options, and help you determine whether negotiation, mediation, a parenting time motion, contempt or other enforcement proceedings, or a formal modification request is appropriate.
You should not have to deal with repeated court order violations or outdated family arrangements without guidance. Whether you need to enforce an existing order or parenting time schedule, respond to a contempt allegation, or modify your divorce decree, Scurlock Family Law in Fort Collins is here to help.
