Whether you are a newly divorced parent in Florida or have been separated from your spouse for some time, maintaining your parenting agreement is essential. However, you’ll most likely encounter some situations where you have difficulties abiding by that agreement. One of those pitfalls may occur when your child refuses to attend visitations with the other parent.
Reasons why a child may refuse visitation
Discovering why your child doesn’t want to see the other parent after your divorce is essential. Typical reasons why children don’t want to see the other parent include:
- Unhappy with rules at the other parent’s home
- Co-parent lives far away from school, friends, and activities
- Frequent disagreements occur between the parent and child
- Your child does not get along with the co-parent’s new partner
One cause for concern is if your child feels unsafe in the other parent’s home. If that’s the case, you need to immediately bring this matter to the attention of the appropriate authorities. If it’s for some other reason, discuss the situation with your co-parent and try to find a solution. Family law courts prefer that divorced couples work together to encourage visitation.
Maintaining your parenting plan
When you divorce and have children, your parenting plan must be approved by the court. If your circumstances change, you may need to adjust your parenting plan. It’s essential, to be honest with your co-parent about why your child may not want visitation because of possible legal implications. When your child truly resists the visitation, you may need to convince a judge regarding the reason.
The courts look differently at teenagers who refuse to see their other parent as judges know that children of this age can push buttons quickly. Your child can legally decline visitation when they turn 18.