If a person disobeys an order of court other than a custody order, the court may issue a bench warrant for the arrest of the person and if the disobedience is will- ful may, after hearing, adjudge the person to be in contempt.
Rule 1915.14.Disobedience of Order. Arrest. Contempt.
Last amended August 1, 2013 · Last verified June 30, 2026
In one sentenceRule 1915.14 lets the court issue a bench warrant and hold a person in contempt for disobeying a custody-related order other than a custody order itself.
Full Text of Rule 1915.14
Plain-English Summary
This rule backs up the court's other custody-case orders — for evaluation, appearance, and the like. If a person disobeys such an order, the court may issue a bench warrant for their arrest and, where the disobedience warrants, hold them in contempt. The authority keeps the case moving and its orders effective.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if someone disobeys a custody-related court order?
The court may issue a bench warrant for arrest and hold the person in contempt.
Official Note
Official Note: For disobedience of a custody order, see Rule 1915.12.
Amendment History
The provisions of this Rule 1915.14 amended August 1, 2013, effective September 3, 2013, 43 Pa.B. 4702. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (340205).
Source & verification. Rule text, the Official Note, and the amendment
history are reproduced verbatim from the Pennsylvania Code, Title 231, the official compilation
of rules adopted by the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. Last verified June 30, 2026. ·
Official text
Also known as: disobedience of order custodybench warrant custodycontempt custody order