Contempt Proceeding Lawyer Suffolk County NY | SRIS, P.C.
Contempt Proceeding Lawyer Suffolk County NY — What Are Your Defenses?
A contempt proceeding in Suffolk County, NY, is a serious legal action alleging you violated a court order, such as a child support, custody, or protective order. Under New York Judiciary Law § 753, the court can impose fines or jail time. If you are facing a contempt proceeding, you need a strategic defense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding Contempt Proceedings in New York
Contempt of court is a tool used to enforce compliance with judicial orders. In family law, it is commonly used when a party fails to pay child support, violates custody/visitation terms, or disobeys an order of protection. The process is governed by specific statutes and requires the moving party to prove you willfully disobeyed a clear and lawful court mandate.
Last verified: April 2026 | Suffolk County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to the New York Judiciary Law Article 27 (official New York State Senate). For local court rules and forms, visit the Suffolk County Supreme Court website.
- Service of Motion/Order to Show Cause: You will be formally served with legal papers (a motion or Order to Show Cause) detailing the alleged violation and a court date.
- Court Hearing: You must appear in Suffolk County Supreme or Family Court for a hearing where the other party presents evidence of the violation.
- Presenting Your Defense: Your attorney will present evidence and arguments to challenge the allegation, such as lack of willfulness or a change in circumstances.
- Court’s Determination: The judge will decide if you are in contempt. If so, they will determine an appropriate penalty or a “purge” condition to remedy the violation.
- Compliance or Penalty: If found in contempt, you must comply with the court’s directive (e.g., pay arrears) or face penalties like fines or incarceration.
Potential Penalties in a Suffolk County Contempt Proceeding
In Suffolk County, a finding of civil contempt can result in coercive fines or jail until you comply with the order, while criminal contempt is punitive and can lead to a definite jail sentence.
| Contempt Type | Legal Standard | Potential Incarceration | Potential Fines | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Contempt | Willful failure to obey a lawful court order | Jail until order is complied with (“coercive”) | Compensatory fines to the other party | Attorney’s fees awarded to other side |
| Criminal Contempt | Willful disobedience that defies the court’s authority | Definite jail sentence (up to 6 months in family court) | Criminal fines | Criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Contempt Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results. We understand that a contempt allegation can be stressful and carries real consequences. Our approach is to thoroughly analyze the order in question, the circumstances of the alleged violation, and build a focused defense strategy for the Suffolk County courts.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
SRIS actively practices in New York courts. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our contempt proceeding attorney Suffolk County NY team leverages this extensive experience to advocate effectively for clients facing enforcement actions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contempt Proceeding Law Firm Suffolk County NY
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location — Buffalo/NY area
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
Our New York location serves clients with matters in Suffolk County courts. We represent individuals in Riverhead, Huntington, Babylon, Islip, Brookhaven, Smithtown, and surrounding communities. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Contempt Proceeding Lawyer Suffolk County NY FAQ
What is the difference between civil and criminal contempt in New York?
Yes, there is a key difference. Civil contempt aims to force future compliance with a court order, often using jail as a coercive tool until you comply. Criminal contempt punishes past disobedience that affronted the court’s authority and carries a definite punitive sentence.
Can I go to jail for not paying child support in Suffolk County?
It depends. Willful failure to pay court-ordered child support can lead to a contempt proceeding. If the court finds you in willful violation, it can impose a jail sentence as a penalty (criminal contempt) or to coerce payment (civil contempt). Demonstrating inability to pay due to job loss or illness is a critical defense.
What are common defenses to a contempt allegation?
Common defenses include lack of willfulness (inability to comply), ambiguity in the original court order, mistake of fact, or that you have substantially complied with the order. A skilled contempt proceeding lawyer Suffolk County NY can evaluate which defense applies to your case.
How long does a contempt proceeding take?
The timeline varies. An Order to Show Cause may be heard within a few weeks. A fully contested hearing can take several months, depending on the Suffolk County court’s docket and the complexity of the evidence involved.
What should I do if I am served with contempt papers?
Do not ignore them. Contact an attorney immediately. You have a strict deadline to respond and appear in court. An experienced contempt proceeding attorney Suffolk County NY can review the papers, advise you on your rights, and begin preparing your defense.
Related Practice Areas: If you are dealing with the underlying order, you may also need a Suffolk County family law attorney for custody, support, or divorce matters. For other legal issues, see our pages for Suffolk County criminal defense or Suffolk County immigration lawyers.
More New York Family Law: Our firm also assists clients in New York County (Manhattan), Kings County (Brooklyn), and Nassau County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws and procedures change. For current guidance on contempt proceedings, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.