It’s no secret that being a teenager is hard. Not only do teens have to think about their current classes, but they also need to plan ahead for their future while navigating the societal pressures placed on them. However, these matters can be made even more serious when their parents file for divorce. Unfortunately, this can be an incredibly difficult time for a teenager, and they may become defiant as a result of the large emotions they are navigating. As such, your teenager may refuse to see their other parent in accordance with the court order. If this is the case, imperative to understand the steps you must take to encourage a relationship and the potential legal issues you could face in these matters. The following blog and Long Island child custody lawyers can assist you during these difficult times.
What Are the Legal Consequences if a Teenager Refuses to See Their Parent?
First and foremost, it’s imperative to understand that even though your teenager is a responsible young adult, they do not have a say in custody matters. As such, your child legally cannot refuse visitation with a non-custodial parent before they turn 18. However, like many other laws, this does not stop many teenagers from being defiant.
In the event your teenager refuses to go to their other parent, it’s imperative to understand the potential legal consequences of this act. Regardless of whether or not your teenager doesn’t want to go, it is still your responsibility to ensure that you do everything possible to get your child to cooperate with the court-ordered custody schedule.
If you do not allow the other parent visitation because your child does not want to go, this could constitute parental alienation. This is a serious matter that can lead to harsh consequences, like a change in the custody order or being held in contempt of court.
You should note, however, that if you can prove to the court that you’ve exhausted all options to encourage your child to spend time with their other parent, you may not face legal consequences, as the court understands that some teenagers can be stubborn.
How Can I Encourage a Relationship?
If your teenager doesn’t want to see their other parent when it is their custody time, it’s important to understand that you must take steps to encourage your child to spend time with their other parent, even if you are not on good terms.
Generally, the most important thing you can do to help your child is to have an open and honest discussion regarding why they do not want to see their other parent. This helps ensure you can take the appropriate steps to help them overcome their visitation. In some instances, you and their other parent may even be able to work together to modify the custody arrangement to better reflect your child’s wants or schedule. For example, they may be unhappy that their weekend visits always coincide with important social or academic events. As such, you can work with the other parent to rework the schedule so your teenager can attend important events while still seeing their other parent.
If talking with your child and their other parent is not a viable option, you may want to try enrolling your child in counseling or therapy to help them navigate their emotions regarding this matter. In some instances, family therapy can help strengthen the bond between a teenager and their noncustodial parent.