Attorney
Managing the ups and downs of parenthood can be challenging for anyone, but the unique circumstances of parenting post-divorce or separation can present situations parents may not be prepared or equipped to cope with. One of those situations may be a resistance or refusal by a child to visit with the other parent. Not only can this cause emotional strain on family relationships, but failure to comply with a court-ordered visitation schedule or custody arrangement can get you in legal trouble.
What can you do to support your child and comply with court orders when they refuse to visit their other parent?
What to Do When Your Child Refuses to Visit the Other Parent in Texas
When a child refuses to see their parent after a divorce or break-up, it puts the other parent between a rock and a hard place. While you want to support your child and their mental well-being, court orders are binding. You can potentially face legal consequences in Texas for violating the terms of visitation or child custody arrangement, including being held in contempt of court, fines, jail time, and a loss of custody.
Unfortunately, regardless of the child’s wishes, the court expects parents to communicate and work together to adhere to the terms of visitation and child custody arrangements. In many situations, the courts recognize the value of allowing a child to build meaningful and positive relationships with both parents, which parents should work toward in an effective co-parenting situation.
When your child doesn’t want to visit the other parent, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your child. Start with:
- Communication – The first thing you need to do when your child expresses reservations or refuses to visit their other parent is open the lines of communication. Often, a refusal doesn’t come out of nowhere. Talk to your child and discover why they are hesitant to see their other parent. Let them know you are a safe and supportive person they can open up to. Take the time to listen and allow them to express their feelings without judgment. Please do not influence their thoughts by badmouthing or speaking negatively of the other parent.
- Try to Involve the Other Parent – Discuss your concerns with your former partner without putting the onus on your child. If a new partner or situation makes your child uncomfortable, work with your former spouse to find solutions that make the visitation time more positive.
- Seek Professional Help – Divorce can be a confusing and emotional time for children. Experienced mental health services can help your child work through their feelings and find healthy coping strategies.
Do not unilaterally decide to refuse visitation or custody. If you believe that visitation with the other parent is not in your child’s best interest, speak with an Odessa family law attorney about seeking a modification to the existing court order while continuing to adhere to the current order.
If you believe that your child is in imminent danger of physical or sexual abuse or their safety is at risk if they visit the other parent, contact law enforcement and immediately seek the advice of a child custody attorney to help you manage the situation without facing legal consequences yourself.
Contact a Compassionate Family Law Attorney Now
While it may be tempting to take your child’s health and emotional well-being into your own hands, you can face legal repercussions and potentially lose custody of your child if you refuse to comply with court orders. Instead, seek the help of a dedicated and compassionate Odessa family law attorney with Navarrete & Schwartz, P.C. Our team wants to help you find legal solutions to protect you and your family. Contact our office today for a confidential consultation.