Family Law Series: A View From the Bench – Criminal and Civil Contempt

Family Law Series: A View From the Bench – Criminal and Civil Contempt
Live Webcast
Wednesday, May 27, 2026
11:00 a.m. – 1:05 p.m.
2.0 hours MCLE credit
Master the complexities of contempt proceedings with this comprehensive, practice-oriented seminar designed for the family law attorney. Whether you are seeking to enforce an order or defending a client against one, this session bridges the gap between foundational law and enhanced trial strategy. Attorneys with basic to intermediate practice experience who attend this online seminar will gain key insights into:
- Substantive Mastery: Distinguish between criminal/civil and direct/indirect contempt, while identifying the essential elements and defenses supported by the latest case law.
- Precision Drafting: Learn to analyze orders before filing, draft bulletproof conditions precedent, and craft final orders that ensure compliance and withstand judicial scrutiny.
- Strategic Litigation: From filing a verified petition to establishing a prima facie case, gain "from-the-bench" perspectives on judicial practice and rule hearings.
- Procedural Navigation: Master the technicalities of discovery, exparte hearings, service rules, purge status dates, and the issuance of body attachments.
- Ethical Guardrails: Navigate the unique ethical dilemmas inherent in advising contemnors and managing high-stakes enforcement.
- Remedies & Fees: Explore available remedies (even when standard options disappear) and maximize recovery through 508(b) petitions for attorney’s fees.
- Real-World Application: The presenters will analyze both effective and ineffective orders from across the state, providing attendees with a "do’s and don’ts" toolkit that can be immediately implemented.
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