What is contempt? Contempt is an action that can be used by the court to enforce an order, or to punish disobedience. Contempt can be used by the court “on its own” (Judge says, “I am going to find you in contempt for your misbehavior in this courtroom”) or can be requested by a party who files a motion with the court (a parent files a suit against the other parent for non-payment of child … [Read more...] about Finding Your Ex in Contempt of a Court Order Involving Children