A court order is legally binding on both parties. If your ex-partner is not complying with a court order, whether it relates to children, finances or property, there are steps you can take to enforce it.
First steps
Before making a formal application, document the non-compliance, keep records of dates, what was supposed to happen and what actually happened. Try to raise the issue with your ex in writing, calmly and specifically. There may be a genuine reason for a one-off failure to comply that can be resolved without court.
Application to enforce
If non-compliance is persistent, you can apply to the court for enforcement. The application process differs depending on the type of order:
- Child arrangements orders, use Form C79 to apply for enforcement
- Financial orders, various enforcement mechanisms depending on the nature of the order
- Property orders, the court can make orders to compel compliance
Consequences of non-compliance
Courts take non-compliance seriously. Consequences can include fines, unpaid work requirements, variation of the order or, in serious cases, committal to prison.