Direct contempt is an act or behavior committed in the presence of the court that disrupts the orderly proceedings of the court or causes the proceedings of the court not to be conducted with dignity.

Constructive contempt is the disobedience of an order of a court, or an action that disturbs the court’s administration of an underlying suit that occurs outside the presence of the court.

Attempting to enforce a court order by contempt of court requires attention to detail and preparation. If done properly, enforcement can be an extremely effective tool for re-enforcing court ordered visitation schedules, child support payments, payment of spousal support and various other court ordered items. A court has the power to punish a contemnor with jail, fines, make up time for lost visitation, and a court may always clarify its order if it is not specific enough for enforcement purposes.