my ex husband just filed chapter 7 .We have a 7 year settlement agreement that he hasnt paid in 11 months .

If the debt your ex husband owes you is a domestic support obligation, it is not dischargeable in his bankruptcy case.  I would have to research whether the contempt hearing can proceed, but at worst it would only temporarily be postponed until either the Chapter 7 case concludes, or you obtain permission from the bankruptcy court to proceed with it.    I suggest you consult with a bankruptcy attorney in the location where your husband filed his bankruptcy case who can research this issue for you. Mark Markus has been practicing exclusively bankruptcy law in California since 1991.  He is a Certified Specialist in Bankruptcy Law by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization,  AV-Rated by martindale.com, and A+ rated by the Better Business Bureau.