Co-parenting after a separation or divorce is rarely easy. However, it can be even more difficult when your ex keeps your child past their allotted custody time. If your ex doesn’t adhere to the parenting plan in place once or twice you may let it slide. When it becomes a continuous issue, it’s important to consider your legal options. Please continue reading to learn how the court can intervene and why connecting with our determined Monmouth County Child Custody Attorneys is in your best interest.
What is Parenting Time?
When a custody agreement is signed, it will outline the designated time that each parent gets to spend with their children. The time in which the child will spend with each parent is known as parenting time. Essentially, a parenting schedule provides a detailed breakdown of a physical custody arrangement, detailing the days, holidays, and times that each parent has ht right to be with their child. Often these agreements include provisions regarding drop-off and pick-up times that each party is required to follow. It’s important to understand that it’s against the law to act in opposition to a parenting or custody agreement as it’s a legally binding court order. Failure to comply with the agreement can result in significant legal ramifications.
What Can I Do if My Ex Continually Keeps Our Child Past Their Allotted Custody Time?
Understandably, life can get in the way, and over time, it’s normal for one or both parents to be late dropping off the children once in a while. However, if your ex is guilty of habitual tardiness, showing no respect for your time or the agreed-upon parenting schedule, you should consider your legal options.
First, you should attempt to contact them as there may be a valid reason for them being late dropping off the kids. You can either shoot them a call, text, or email. After you get in touch with them, you should address the issue at hand. If you would like to resolve this problem outside of court, you can suggest a solution or compromise to avoid further issues. It’s important to keep a record of any lateness. If this becomes a frequent issue, you can use this documentation as evidence to support your claim. Additionally, if your ex continually keeps your child past their allotted parenting time, you should consider suggesting a modification of your existing custody arrangement that works better for both parties.
If your ex is not responsive to your suggestions or keeps disregarding your parenting agreement, you can enlist the help of an experienced attorney who can help you petition the court to enforce the court order. At Paone Zalesi & Murphy, we are prepared to help you navigate these complex matters and protect your parental rights. Connect with us today to learn how we can fight for your family.
