Steering You Toward Your Best Options

Illegitimate reasons to not allow parental visitation

On Behalf of | Dec 2, 2019 | Child Custody

After a couple has gone through a divorce, it is common for them to feel some level of hostility or bitterness toward their ex-spouse. While a custodial parent may try to use the children as leverage to get back at the ex and deny them visitation rights, this is illegal and could lead to the person facing legal repercussions. Texas parents should not refuse visitation rights to an ex-spouse if they have been granted them by the courts.

It is common for a person to feel resentment toward a boyfriend or girlfriend of an ex-spouse. First, there is the pain that is associated with knowing that the ex-spouse has moved on. Second, there is the apprehension or feelings of jealousy related to thinking of how a child’s relationship may potentially grow as they get to know the ex-spouse’s new significant other. These are also situations that do not create grounds for refusing visitation.

One challenge that co-parents have is presenting a united front when it comes to parenting schedules. The custodial parent may think that if a child does not want to visit the other parent, it is okay to refuse visitation rights. If there is a legitimate reason for concern, this should be addressed. The child may feel that way simply because he or she does not like the changes that are taking place in the family. When co-parents present a united front, it will be in the best interests of the children.

A non-custodial parent may feel like the custodial parent is constantly refusing visitation. Perhaps they constantly structure a child’s schedule around school activities as opposed to the parenting schedule. A person may want to speak to a lawyer about the situation. The lawyer may be able to provide information about parental rights when it comes to child custody and visitation. They might work to improve parenting plans or help a parent seek sole custody of a child.