Pennsylvania
What can I do if the other parent violates a custody order in Pennsylvania?
Quick answer
If a parent willfully fails to comply with a Pennsylvania custody order, the other parent can file a petition for civil contempt under Pa.R.Civ.P. 1915.12. The petition begins with a Notice and Order to Appear, states the facts showing a willful failure to comply, attaches the custody order, and is verified subject to 18 Pa.C.S. § 4904.
Researched by Dan Martin, Legal Researcher · Published by Onbello Legal · Last updated October 2026
Filing and service
The petitioner also files a Criminal Record/Abuse History Verification form when starting the contempt proceeding (Rule 1915.3-2(a)(2)). The petition may be served personally or by regular mail, and no answer is required; if it is mailed, the hearing cannot be held sooner than seven days after mailing unless the court orders otherwise for cause (Rule 1915.12(d)).
What the court can order
Under 23 Pa.C.S. § 5323(g), contempt is punishable by one or more of: imprisonment for not more than six months, a fine of not more than $500, probation for not more than six months, an order for nonrenewal, suspension, or denial of operating privilege under 23 Pa.C.S. § 4355, and counsel fees and costs. A jail order must state the condition for release.
Keep records
Contempt requires a willful failure to comply. A log written the same day, with the date, time, place, the term of the order, and what happened, and the related messages, makes the facts easier to show.
Tools and resources
Where to check this
Forms, deadlines, and local rules change. Verify anything on this page against the official self-help resources for your state before you rely on it.
This page is general legal information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney–client relationship. Laws and local rules vary and change. For advice about your situation, consult a licensed family-law attorney in your state.