Protect Your Rights and Defend Against Serious Penalties in Family Court
Contempt of court is a serious offense in Georgia, and it can cost you. Whether you’re accused or defending yourself against contempt charges, you need aggressive and skilled representation.
At the Edwards Law Group, we’re ready to fight for your rights. Reach out to explain your case to our team of Atlanta family law attorneys.
15+ Years of Experience | In-Person & Virtual Services | Aggressive Representation
Types of Contempt in Georgia
Civil Contempt
- Civil contempt occurs when you violate a court order, such as not paying child support. This can result in hefty fines or even jail time.
Criminal Contempt
- Criminal contempt is a direct challenge to the authority of the court, like obstructing justice or threatening witnesses. This can result in serious criminal penalties, including jail time.
Direct Contempt
- Direct contempt happens in the courtroom—such as disrespecting the judge or disrupting proceedings. In these rare cases, you can expect swift punishment with little mercy.
What Our Georgia Attorneys Can Do for You
Defend Your Rights
- We fight diligently to protect your rights at every step of the legal process. You don’t need to face contempt charges alone—we’ll stand by you and make sure you’re treated fairly.
Gather Evidence
- We don’t just take claims at face value—we do our homework and gather solid evidence to back your case. Our thorough investigation will leave no stone unturned in your defense.
Challenge the Charges
- If the charges are unjust or the evidence is shaky, we go on the offensive. We’ll challenge the contempt of court accusation and break down the case against you.
Reduce the Severity of Penalties
- Even if you’re facing penalties, there are ways to move forward. Our family law attorneys work to minimize fines, reduce jail time, or find alternative punishments.
Explain the Charges
- Contempt charges are serious, but we’ll break them down so you understand exactly what you’re up against. Our goal is to empower you with knowledge and put you in the best possible position.
Negotiate a Resolution
- Our firm works toward the best possible outcome, whether that means negotiating more time or modifying the original order. Our relentless pursuit keeps your best interests front and center.
File Appeals
- A ruling in contempt doesn’t have to be the end. If you’re wrongly convicted, we will aggressively appeal the decision and fight to get you the justice you deserve.
Reduce the Severity of Penalties
- Even if you’re facing penalties, there are ways to move forward. Our family law attorneys work to minimize fines, reduce jail time, or find alternative punishments.
Appeal Your Contempt Ruling With Our Firm
If you feel the ruling is wrong, don’t hesitate—appeal now and let us work to undo the damage.
How We Contest Contempt Rulings in Georgia
Step 1: Schedule a Consultation
There’s no obligation in our first meeting. Let us review your case for and lay out your legal options.
Step 2: Investigate the Contempt Accusations
We’ll gather evidence and interview witnesses to build a powerful case in your defense.
Step 3: Present a Strong Defense
In court, we will argue your case fiercely, challenging every accusation and fighting for your freedom.
Step 4: Seek a Fair Modification
If the orders are unfair, we’ll work to modify them and make sure they align with your life circumstances.
Step 5: Appeal the Ruling if Necessary
When rulings are unjust or overly harsh, we act quickly to challenge them and fight for a fair outcome.
What to Expect from Edwards Law Group
Transparent Legal Costs
- The last thing you need right now are confusing bills. We believe in straightforward, honest legal pricing.
Results-Driven
- Our focus is on the results of your case. We work relentlessly to get you the outcome you deserve.
15+ Years of Experience
- We’ve been fighting for Georgia families for many years. Trust us to handle your case with skill and determination.
Localized Knowledge
- Our attorneys know Georgia law inside and out, and we use that knowledge to your advantage every time.
Contempt of Court in Georgia: FAQs
What does it mean to be held in contempt of court?
Being held in contempt of court means that a person has willfully disobeyed or failed to comply with a court order. It can involve actions like not adhering to child support agreements, ignoring custody orders, or disrupting court proceedings.
What is the punishment for contempt of court in Georgia?
The punishment for contempt of court in Georgia can vary depending on the severity of the violation.
Civil contempt may result in fines or imprisonment until compliance with the court’s order is achieved. Criminal contempt can carry harsher penalties, including significant fines or jail time, depending on the circumstances and whether the offense was intentional or obstructive to the judicial process.
Does being held in contempt go on your record in Georgia?
Yes, a contempt of court finding can go on your permanent record in Georgia. This can have long-term consequences, affecting employment opportunities, personal reputation, and other areas of your life.
Whether the contempt is criminal or civil, a court ruling may result in a public record that could impact your future. That’s why you need a strong legal defense.
What is the best defense for contempt of court charges?
The best defense for contempt of court charges often revolves around showing that there was no willful disobedience of the court’s order or that the individual could not comply with the order. In some cases, a strong defense may also demonstrate that the order was unclear or that there were mitigating circumstances.
An experienced attorney from the Edwards Law Group will work to build a compelling case to challenge the contempt charges and reduce penalties.
Schedule a Consultation
Get the legal representation you need here in Atlanta. Set up your first meeting today.
Call Us Today at 770.723.7211 or complete the form below to request your appointment.
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