My Ex Isn’t Following Our Custody Order What Can I Do?
Custody and visitation court orders are put in place to provide structure, stability, and fairness for both parents and, most importantly, for the children involved. But what happens when your ex consistently ignores the schedule or bends the rules?
Here are some practical steps you can take to protect your child’s routine and your own peace of mind — before jumping straight into legal action.
1. Keep Detailed Notes
Start documenting every issue that arises. Missed exchanges, late drop-offs, or any changes to the agreed schedule should be written down with dates and times. Keep your notes neutral, factual, and consistent. This kind of record-keeping can be very helpful if you need to revisit the issue in court or with an attorney later.
2. Stay Calm and Collected
While it’s frustrating to deal with a co-parent who isn’t following the order, it’s important not to respond emotionally. Avoid retaliation or harsh communication. Courts value cooperative behavior, especially when children are involved.
3. Review Your Court Order
Take time to reread the original custody or visitation order. Sometimes what seems like a violation might actually be a result of vague language or unclear terms. Understanding exactly what’s written can help you decide your next steps and may even clear up misunderstandings.
4. Know When to Ask for Help
If the problems persist and your co-parent continues to ignore the agreement, it may be time to speak with a family law professional. There may be options to enforce or modify the order, depending on the circumstances — but it’s best to get personalized legal advice based on your specific situation.
5. Think Before You Post
It can be tempting to vent on social media when co-parenting gets difficult. However, doing so can damage your credibility and be used against you in court. Keep complaints offline and communicate through appropriate legal or mediation channels instead.
Need Guidance?
At Integrated Family Law, we work with Nevada parents navigating difficult custody situations. Whether you’re trying to enforce a current order or understand your rights, we’re here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
