Custody agreements govern the custodial time for each parent in situations when the parents are no longer together. The goal of an established custody agreement is fair quality time for the child with each parent. Unfortunately, sometimes parents disrupt the process.
Understanding custodial interference helps you identify concerning situations with your custody agreement.
What is custodial interference?
Custodial interference occurs when one parent disrupts the court-ordered custody and visitation schedule. Preventing the scheduled exchange of custody interferes with the relationship between the child and the other parent.
What are some types of custodial interference?
There are a few common types of interference that every parent should understand. Denying scheduled visitation qualifies as interference. Denying the non-custodial parent their court-approved time can lead to repercussions in court.
When one parent relocates with the child or takes the child out of state without consent from the other parent, the court often considers that custodial interference. Preventing routine communication between the child and their parent, including denying phone calls or emails, also qualifies as custodial interference in some cases.
What are the consequences of custodial interference?
When the court finds one parent guilty of custodial interference, it often leads to custody modifications in an effort to protect the child’s well-being. Some cases also result in contempt of court charges or court-ordered make-up time for the parent who missed time with the child.
According to Forbes, almost 25% of U.S. children live with only one custodial parent. The more you know about custodial interference, the easier it is to protect your rights to quality time with your children.
