What contempt addresses
A contempt application alleges disobedience of a court order or another form of contempt recognized by the Rules. The issue is not merely whether conflict occurred; the court considers the order, notice of it and the alleged non-compliance.
October 2026 application procedure
The current Rule 21-7 contempt procedure works with the amended Rule 10-6 application process. The unfiled notice of application and supporting material for contempt must be personally served as required by the Rules.
Evidence to organize
Keep the entered order, proof the other person knew about it, a dated chronology, communications and documents showing the alleged breach. Avoid turning the affidavit into argument or unrelated history.
Other enforcement routes
Contempt may be disproportionate or unnecessary where another enforcement tool fits the problem—for example BCFMA for support or a writ for a money/property order.
Get advice early
Because contempt can involve fines or imprisonment and strict procedure, this is one of the areas where limited-scope or full legal advice can be especially valuable.