Can a Parent Be Held in Contempt for Not Providing a Child’s Social Security Documents?

Kaylin M.M. Bosque, Esq.

Aug 31

1 min read

QUESTION:

The other parent has repeatedly threatened to file contempt charges if I do not provide copies of our child’s Social Security documents. I do not want to violate any court order or get into legal trouble.

Can a parent be held in contempt for refusing or failing to provide these documents, and what should I do if the parenting plan or court order does not clearly say who must keep or provide them?

ANSWER:

A party generally cannot simply “charge” you with contempt. Contempt is something a judge may find only if there is a valid court order requiring you to provide specific documents or information and you willfully fail to comply. If there is a clear order, it is important to comply promptly or seek clarification/modification from the court if you have a legitimate concern. If there is no order requiring you to provide the information requested, the father may still be able to request it through the proper legal process, but threats alone do not create a contempt violation. A Florida family-law attorney can review your specific court orders and advise you on the safest way to respond before you provide or withhold sensitive information.

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