Sanctions – disobey orders at your own risk!

When a judge makes an order, it is not optional.   A party can certainly appeal a decision, but an order is an order – even if the judge orders you (or your attorney) to meet and confer to discuss an issue.  Failure to talk to opposing counsel may result in sanctions as it did in this case.

The link provides a summary of the family law litigation (re child support arrears).  In addition to the general rule to comply with a court’s order, the story also provides a reminder that many (though admittedly not all) issues can be resolved between the parties (or their attorneys) without court intervention, if the parties are reasonable and wish to avoid unnecessary litigation.