What Is A Status Quo Order In A Florida Divorce Case?
A status quo order is a court order that is issued in family law cases to maintain the existing conditions or arrangements between the parties while their legal dispute is occurring. In Florida, such orders are most commonly seen in family law or child custody cases where they aim to prevent sudden changes initiated by one parent that could disrupt the stability of the children.
As an example, if one parent tries to suddenly move a child to a new school district, a status quo order could prevent the parent from doing so until the court makes a final decision. Status quo orders protect both parties by ensuring the fairness of the proceedings and minimizing conflict during an already tense time.
When are status quo orders issued in Florida?
Courts will issue status quo orders when they sense there is a need to preserve stability during a family law dispute. Such orders are typically granted early in a case to freeze key elements (like child custody arrangements, living situations, and financial responsibilities) in place so there is as little change as possible happening during the trial. The goal is to prevent parents from taking rash actions, such as relocating a child or draining a shared bank account.
How do status quo orders work in child custody cases in Florida?
Status quo orders play an important role in child custody disputes. They are often issued to maintain the child’s current living arrangements until the court has resolved the case. These orders prevent either parent from taking rash actions that could disrupt the child’s routine or stability, such as moving the child into a new home, changing schools, or withholding visitation rights.
One example in which a status quo order would be used is when one parent decides to unilaterally limit the other parent’s access to their child during a custody dispute. The status quo order can ensure that the current visitation schedule is upheld, minimizing conflict, and prioritizing the child’s best interests.
What happens when a status quo order is violated?
A status quo order is a directive handed down by a judge. Violating such an order can have serious legal consequences. Failure to comply with the order could be considered contempt of court which can lead to legal penalties. Penalties include fines, a modification of custody agreements, or even jail time in extreme cases.
Common violations of status quo orders include:
- Relocating a child without the other parent’s or the court’s consent
- Withholding financial support (such as child support) or household expense payments
- Interfering with visitation rights
When a violation of a status quo order occurs, the impacted party can file a motion for contempt of court. This informs the court of the breach and requests the enforcement of penalties. In some cases, the judge might hold an emergency hearing to address the violation right away.
Talk to an Orlando, FL Family Law Attorney Today
Greater Orlando Family Law represents the interests of Orlando residents who are pursuing a divorce. Call our Orlando family lawyers today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin advising you on key elements of your divorce such as property distribution, alimony, child custody, and child support.
