Many divorced parents who share custody of their child follow a custody schedule. A custody schedule determines which parent is responsible for their child on set days. Once a custody schedule is approved by the court, both parents are legally required to follow it.
However, some parents may disagree with the terms of a custody schedule. A parent may try to withhold custody and deny the other parent time with their child. Refusing to allow a parent their scheduled custody time can result in serious consequences. Here is what you should know:
What happens if a parent denies custody time?
Denying a parent court-ordered custody time can lead to serious legal issues. The parent who is being denied custody time may file to have a custody arrangement enforced. If a parent continues to deny custody time, a court may change the custody order to fit a child’s best interests.
However, if a parent still refuses to follow a custody arrangement, they could face severe repercussions. A court may take away a parent’s right to custody. A parent who violates a court-ordered custody arrangement could also face fines and jail time.
What is it a matter of safety?
There are some situations when a parent may feel they really do need to refuse the other parent time with their child. For example, if there are credible concerns of abuse, neglect, substance abuse or domestic violence. However, where possible, it is typically best if the parent take their concerns to the court to ask it to intervene.
Professional legal guidance can help resolve child custody schedule issues.