What if my child refuses to go to visitation?

While no attorney will advise you to violate a court order ordering visitation, it can be very difficult to force a child to visit with another parent when they are refusing to do so.

First, find out why the child does not want to go to visitation. If he/she has a legitimate fear of going

to visit their mom or dad, you may need to file for a protective order. Otherwise, file for a modification of custody so you will have a good defense when the other parent claims that you've violated the order.

It could also be beneficial if the other parent comes over to your home to visit with the child. If you all had a rough break-up this may not be feasible but it allows the other parent to foster a relationship with the child but puts minimal stress on the child.

Allow the other parent to pick the child up from school on his/her visitation dates. This way there is

no physical transfer from one parent to the other which will also be less traumatic on the child.

Ultimately, the more the child visits with both parents, the more comfortable he/she will be with custody visitation schedule.

If you have specific questions about custody, filing motions, or your rights as a parent, contact our office at (919)321-6569, nastasia@kisalawatkins.com, www.kisalawatkins.com.