Enforcement of Parenting Time and Contempt in Oregon

Protecting Your Right to Parent

When a parenting plan is violated in Oregon, the consequences can be stressful, disruptive, and emotionally charged. At Romano Law, we help parents assert and enforce their rights through lawful remedies, including enforcement proceedings and contempt actions under Oregon law.

This guide breaks down your rights, legal options, and what to expect if the other parent is denying your parenting time—or accusing you of doing the same.

What Is Parenting Time Enforcement?

Parenting time enforcement is a legal process that ensures court-ordered time with your child is honored and uninterrupted. Whether set by agreement or ordered after a contested hearing, a parenting plan is not optional.

If the other parent is refusing to comply, you have legal recourse under ORS 107.434, which provides a mechanism for swift resolution through a motion to enforce parenting time.

Your Rights Under ORS 107.434

ORS 107.434 allows either parent to file a motion for enforcement when the other party fails to comply with an existing parenting time order.

Under this statute, the court can:

• Order make-up parenting time.
• Modify transportation arrangements.
• Require the noncompliant parent to attend parenting classes or counseling.
• Impose fines or attorney’s fees.
• Refer the matter to a contempt proceeding under ORS 33.015.

A hearing must be scheduled within 45 days of filing, and judges are empowered to craft remedies that prioritize the child’s best interest while restoring parenting time.

What Is Contempt of Court in Oregon Family Law?

If a parent willfully disobeys a parenting time order, they may be held in contempt of court under ORS Chapter 33.

Contempt penalties can include:

• Monetary fines
• Jail time (up to 180 days)
• Compensatory make-up time
• Suspension of licenses (in severe cases)

Contempt is not the first step—courts prefer remedial enforcement. But repeated or egregious violations may lead to serious consequences.

Common Parenting Time Violations

You may have grounds for enforcement or contempt if the other parent:

• Denies visits without cause
• Frequently cancels or delays exchanges
• Refuses to return your child on time
• Interferes with calls or communication
• Manipulates the child to resist visits

These patterns are not just frustrating—they can harm your child and erode your relationship. Courts take repeated violations seriously.

What to Do If the Other Parent Violates the Parenting Plan

1. Document everything. Keep records of missed exchanges, texts, and emails.
2. Stay calm. Don’t retaliate or violate the plan yourself.
3. Contact your attorney. File a motion to enforce or contempt petition.
4. File quickly. Delays can undermine your credibility and your child’s stability.

At Romano Law, we act fast to protect your parenting rights.

What If You’re Accused of Violating the Plan?

False or exaggerated claims can also result in enforcement or contempt hearings. We defend parents unfairly accused of:

• Interference they didn’t cause
• Violations caused by emergencies or misunderstandings
• Allegations used to influence custody modification

We help present the full story and protect your rights in and out of court.

Why Choose Romano Law

• Focused Practice: We handle parenting time, custody, and contempt cases across Oregon.
• Swift Action: We know time matters. You’ll get an experienced team ready to respond immediately.
• Strategic Insight: We tailor enforcement tactics to protect both your rights and your child’s emotional health.

Schedule a Consultation

Whether you’re being denied time with your children or facing accusations of contempt, Romano Law can help. We offer strategic representation that’s responsive, child-focused, and rooted in Oregon law.

Romano Law, P.C.
13765 NW Cornell Rd, Suite 250
Portland, OR 97229

Call today or schedule online to discuss your options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I call the police if the other parent denies my parenting time?

In most cases, no. Police generally won’t enforce parenting time unless there’s a specific court order directing law enforcement. Instead, file an enforcement motion under ORS 107.434.

How fast will the court act?

ORS 107.434 requires the court to hold a hearing within 45 days of filing.

Is contempt a criminal charge?

No. It is a civil matter, but it can still result in serious consequences like jail time or fines.

Can parenting time be changed during enforcement?

Yes. If a judge finds repeated or harmful violations, they may modify the parenting plan as part of enforcement or in a separate proceeding.