Which of the following is a method for enforcing child support and custody orders?

Contempt proceedings serve as a formal legal mechanism to enforce child support and custody orders when one party fails to comply with the terms of those orders. When a parent either does not pay child support as ordered or does not adhere to custody arrangements, the other parent has the option to file for contempt in court. This process involves notifying the court of the non-compliance, and if the court finds that the parent is indeed in contempt, various sanctions may be imposed. These can include being ordered to pay the owed child support, garnishment of wages, or, in some cases, even incarceration until compliance is achieved. This method is particularly effective because it holds the non-compliant parent accountable under the law, which underscores the seriousness of adherence to child support and custody orders.

In contrast, while a child's preferences can be a consideration in custody disputes, they do not offer a direct means to enforce orders. Voluntary payment agreements and informal mediation sessions can facilitate arrangements between parties but lack the enforceability and legal weight that contempt proceedings possess. Therefore, contempt proceedings is the most appropriate and formalized way to enforce such orders.