Custody orders carry the full weight of the Washington family courts. Parents have a responsibility to their children to uphold the custody order so long as it remains in their best interests. Most divorced or separated parents diligently abide by the terms established in a custody order. However, occasionally one parent may fail to follow the custody order. They might regularly cancel their parenting time or refuse to let the children see the other parent.
In those frustrating circumstances, it may be necessary to seek enforcement help. The courts can actively enforce an existing custody order if parents take the right steps.
Gathering documentation
Family law disputes can quickly devolve into he-said, she-said scenarios. Both parents may make allegations of misconduct against the other, and the judge may struggle to determine the truth that lies between those two extremes.
It is, therefore, important for those facing custody violations to gather documentation of what has transpired. Keeping detailed records of canceled or denied visits and other violations of the custody order by making written notes and obtaining screenshots of digital communication can help affirm that there is an issue undermining the court-established custody arrangements.
Filing a motion in court
Sometimes, the documentation gathered by one parent can help them communicate their concerns to the other. People are often unaware of the patterns in their own behavior, and some parents may correct their conduct when confronted with evidence of custody order violations.
Others may refuse to take accountability, at which point court involvement is necessary. Family law judges can enforce court orders by reprimanding the non-compliant parent, awarding the concerned parent additional parenting time or even holding the non-compliant parent in contempt of court.
In some cases, enforcement filings may result in a judge issuing a custody modification. They may determine that one parent has established an inability to act in the best interests of the children and may update the custody order accordingly.
Those dealing with contentious, frustrating custody scenarios may need help asserting themselves. Having support while evaluating and addressing custody order violations can help parents push for a favorable outcome.
