What do you do when a child refuses to spend time with the other parent?Physically refuses to leave. Also would this have bearing on who is awarded custody.
A child does not get to make custody and visitation decisions. It is up to the parent to ensure compliance with a custody court order. However, it can be difficult if not impossible to force older children, particularly teenagers, into visiting with the other parent. In that case, the custodial parent at the time should regularly encourage the child to visit, not disparage the other parent, and make the child available for the scheduled custodial/visitation times. Sometimes having a therapist for the child can be helpful with this.
Depending on the underlying reasons as to why the child refuses to spend time with the other parent, then it could affect how custody is awarded.
Anna Ayscue
Attorney with Rosen Law Firm Cary • Chapel Hill • Durham • Raleigh • Wake Forest
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