Cost of Hiring an Attorney for Contempt of Court in Georgia (2025 Guide)

Understanding the cost of hiring an attorney for contempt of court in the state of Georgia is essential, especially when you’re facing a serious legal issue like unpaid child support or custody violations. Many people in Georgia search for legal help in these situations, but how much should you expect to pay for a contempt lawyer? If you’re facing a contempt of court situation in Georgia, you may be wondering: “How much does a contempt lawyer cost in Georgia?” It’s a valid concern. Legal costs can quickly pile up, especially if you’re unsure about filing fees, attorney rates, and whether you can recover fees from the opposing party.

This guide breaks down the cost of hiring an attorney for contempt of court in Georgia, including typical attorney fees, filing costs, fee recovery options, and tips for managing expenses effectively.

What Is Contempt of Court in Georgia?

Contempt of court refers to the intentional disobedience or disregard of a lawful court order, and in Georgia, it can fall under two main categories: civil contempt and criminal contempt. Understanding the difference between the two is key to knowing what legal consequences or costs you may face.

Civil Contempt

Civil contempt is the most common type encountered in family law cases. It typically arises when a person fails to follow through with court-ordered obligations. Examples include:

• Failing to pay child support or alimony on time
• Denying the other parent court-ordered visitation or custody rights
• Refusing to divide marital property as ordered in a divorce judgment

The goal of civil contempt is compliance, not punishment. The court often gives the violating party a chance to correct the behavior, such as catching up on child support before imposing harsher penalties. In some cases, jail time may be used as a coercive measure, but it’s usually conditional upon continued noncompliance.

Criminal Contempt

Criminal contempt involves acts that obstruct the court’s function or disrespect its authority. This type of contempt is punitive and is used to uphold the dignity and authority of the court. Examples include:

• Repeatedly interrupting a judge or refusing to answer questions
• Disrupting court proceedings with loud or offensive behavior
• Violating a court’s decorum rules, like using your phone inappropriately or showing up intoxicated

Unlike civil contempt, criminal contempt is punitive; its purpose is to punish past misbehavior, not necessarily to force compliance. Sanctions may include fines, jail time, or both, and the consequences are often immediate.

In most family law-related searches, people looking into the cost of hiring an attorney for contempt of court in Georgia are dealing with civil contempt, particularly for child support, custody, or alimony violations.

Cost of Hiring an Attorney for Contempt of Court in Georgia: What to Expect

The cost of hiring an attorney for contempt of court in Georgia depends on several key factors including case complexity, your location, and whether the contempt is civil or criminal.

Below are the typical costs and what influences them:

Typical Attorney Rates in Georgia

According to recent data, attorney fees in Georgia can range from $74 to $348 per hour, depending on several key factors:

• The lawyer’s experience and location – Highly experienced attorneys or those practicing in urban areas like Atlanta typically charge more than those in smaller towns.
• Case complexity – A straightforward contempt motion is less expensive than a complex case involving multiple hearings or detailed evidence review.
• Emergency or expedited filings – If your case requires immediate legal action (e.g., urgent child custody violations), you may pay a premium for faster service.

Estimated Total Costs for Contempt Cases

When assessing the cost of hiring an attorney for contempt of court in Georgia, it’s important to understand how attorneys charge. Georgia attorneys involved in such cases may charge either a flat fee or an hourly billing, and here’s how it’s typically structured:

Flat fee (basic contempt motion): $1,000 – $2,500
Ideal for simple, uncontested cases such as enforcing a support payment or visitation schedule without a hearing.

Hourly billing (complex cases): $150–$350/hour, total $3,000 – $7,000
Applies when the case involves disputes, document gathering, multiple court appearances, or negotiations between attorneys.

Trial/hearing representation: Can reach $10,000+
In highly contested matters (e.g., repeated non-compliance or emotionally charged custody issues), full trial prep and courtroom litigation can push costs significantly higher.

How Much to File Contempt of Court in Georgia?

The filing fee for a contempt of court varies by county, but here’s a general idea:

• Standard contempt filing: $58
• Contempt related to child support or alimony: No filing fee required

Can Filing Fees Be Waived?

Yes. If you cannot afford the filing fee, you may submit a pauper’s affidavit (also called a poverty affidavit) to request a waiver. This is especially common in family law courts like Gwinnett County and Fulton County.

Can I Recover Attorney Fees in Georgia Contempt Cases?

Yes, but it’s not automatic. Georgia law provides several statutes under which a judge can order the opposing party to pay your attorney fees:

Common Legal Grounds for Attorney Fee Recovery:

O.C.G.A. § 19‑6‑2 – In family law (e.g., divorce, custody, child support), the court may award fees based on the financial circumstances of both parties.

O.C.G.A. § 9‑15‑14 – If the opposing party filed a frivolous motion or acted in bad faith, you may recover fees.

O.C.G.A. § 13‑6‑11 – Allows fee recovery in civil actions if the other party acted in bad faith, was stubbornly litigious, or caused unnecessary trouble.

Key Factors That Affect Fee Recovery:

While Georgia law allows for the recovery of attorney’s fees in contempt cases, whether or not fees are awarded depends on several important factors that the court considers during the ruling:

• Judge’s discretion
• Behavior of the opposing party
• Whether the contempt was willful
• Evidence submitted (emails, text messages, proof of non-compliance)

In many cases, attorney’s fees are awarded as part of the contempt ruling and can be enforced like a civil judgment, meaning the other party may be legally required to pay even if they initially resist.

What Happens If Found in Contempt?

Being found in contempt of court in Georgia can lead to serious consequences, especially if the violation is deemed intentional or repeated. The court’s primary goal is to enforce compliance, but it also has the authority to impose penalties to uphold its orders and authority, the penalties may include:

• Fines
• Attorney’s fees
• Jail time (until compliance)
• Community service

In serious situations, especially repeated violations or refusal to comply, a judge may order jail time until the person complies with the original court order. These penalties are designed not just to punish, but to compel the offending party to take corrective action.

Tips to Manage or Reduce Legal Costs in a Contempt Case

Legal representation can be costly, but it doesn’t always have to drain your finances—especially in a contempt case where strategic planning can go a long way. Whether you’re the one filing for contempt or defending against it, there are practical steps you can take to minimize legal expenses without compromising the quality of representation.

Here are a few smart, cost-effective strategies to keep in mind:

• Ask about flat fees for simple contempt motions.
• Compare attorney quotes before hiring.
• Request sliding scale or pro bono services if you qualify.
• Negotiate or mediate with the opposing party to avoid a court battle.
• Prepare your documentation before meeting your lawyer to reduce billable time.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does a contempt lawyer cost in Georgia?

A contempt attorney may charge between $1,000 and $7,000 depending on the case. Hourly rates typically range from $150–$350/hour.

2. Can I recover attorney fees in a contempt case in Georgia?

Yes. Under statutes like O.C.G.A. § 19-6-2, § 9-15-14, or § 13-6-11, you may be able to recover fees—especially in family law cases.

3. How much does it cost to file contempt of court in Georgia?

Standard filing fees are about $58, but if the case involves child support or alimony, no filing fee is required.

4. Do contempt filing fees get waived in Georgia?

Yes. Courts often approve fee waivers if you file a pauper’s affidavit and meet indigency requirements.

5. Is there a flat fee for contempt attorneys in Georgia?

Some attorneys offer flat fees for basic contempt filings, usually between $1,000 and $2,500.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the cost of hiring an attorney for contempt of court in Georgia is essential and helps you make more informed decisions, whether you’re filing a contempt motion or defending against one. With the right legal support, you can take control of your case and protect your rights.

So, if you need help finding a qualified contempt attorney in Georgia, click the link below to get in touch with our experienced family and contempt attorneys to book your FREE consultation session today.