According to Florida case law, a contempt order should not be used to modify child custody or visitation arrangements significantly:
It is well settled that a contempt order should not be the basis for a change of custody (or extensive visitation) order. Laloggia–Vonhegel v. Vonhegel, 732 So.2d 1131 (Fla. 2d DCA 1999); Moody v. Moody, 721 So.2d 731 (Fla. 1st DCA 1998); Pace v. Solomon, 715 So.2d 1155 (Fla. 5th DCA 1998); Gielchinsky v. Gielchinsky, 662 So.2d 732 (Fla. 4th DCA 1995). The purpose of a civil contempt proceeding is to obtain compliance with the court’s initial order. The sanction of changing custody or visitation does not coerce compliance. In fact, it may penalize the children for their parents’ contumacious conduct, a result opposite from their best interests.
See: Berger v. Berger, 795 So. 2d 113 (Fla. Dist. Ct. App. 2001)
Related:
- Child Custody in Florida
- Advocating for Your Child’s Best Interest
- How to File for Child Relocation in Florida and Win Your Case
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