Although rare in other branches of the Trial Court, complaints for contempt
are a frequently-used tool in the Probate and Family Court to enforce compliance
with temporary orders to final judgment. From determining whether a contempt
action exists, to filing your complaint, onto final judgment, family law
practitioners must be comfortable navigating the various procedural rules and
substantive issues. What used to be cut and dry in prosecuting a complaint for
contempt, is now subject to new standards based on recent case law.
Take advantage of this opportunity to hear from First Justice Angela
M. Ordoñez , Judge
John D. Casey and Chief Probation Officer Paul Brian Quinn as they
discuss the specific elements of a complaint for contempt; the
plaintiff and defendant’s respective burdens of proof; available defenses and
the possibility of a “counterclaim” for contempt; whether (and what)
discovery is available; when the court is able to modify the underlying
judgment; and pursuing attorneys fees and/or statutory interest.
Faculty:Bryna S. Klevan, Esq., program co-chair
Klevan Law Office, P.C., Wellesley
Jennifer R. Clapp, Esq., program co-chair
Grindle, Robinson, Goodhue & Frolin, Wellesley
Hon. Angela Ordonez
Norfolk Probate & Family Court, Canton
Hon. John D. Casey
Norfolk Probate & Family Court, Canton
Paul Brian Quinn
Chief Probation Officer, Norfolk Probate & Family Court, Canton
Sponsoring Sections: Family Law Section
Young Lawyers Division