When One Parent Drops Kids Off Late – Ignoring Child Custody Orders

You have child custody orders in place that are designed to maximize the amount of time you and your ex spend with your children. If your children’s other parent refuses to take these orders seriously and chooses to consistently drop the kids off late, it can throw off your and your children’s schedules and can churn up a good deal of anxiety in the process. If you have concerns about your ex’s adherence to your child custody terms, it is time to consult with an experienced San Antonio Family lawyer.

The Seriousness of the Situation

While both parents are responsible for following the parenting time schedule included in their child custody terms, there are bound to be times when one parent or the other simply can’t be where they’re supposed to be. The court recognizes that life has a way of intervening with our plans and that being late on the odd occasion is not a huge deal.

If, on the other hand, your children’s other parent makes it their practice not to follow the terms of your child custody orders, it is a different matter. If this is the situation you find yourself in, the court can remedy the matter. Such remedies can – in extreme situations – include your ex being found in contempt of court, which is a criminal charge.

If Your Children Are Seriously Late

If your ex isn’t bringing your children home and it’s getting seriously late, you should contact your local law enforcement to let them know you are concerned about your kids’ safety and to file a report. The authorities will attempt to locate your children and ensure their safety. This can also lead to further action, such as filing a motion with the court to enforce the parenting plan you have. If your ex refuses to abide by the custody terms in place, the court has the authority to issue a warrant for their arrest – if it becomes necessary.

The Court’s Authority

If the matter goes to court, it can lead to consequences such as the following:

• Your ex being reprimanded by the court
• The court handing down a new parenting plan that cuts into your ex’s time with the kids
• The court placing your ex in contempt of court

You don’t have to simply put up with your ex playing fast and loose with your court-ordered child custody arrangements. Many parents who don’t take their child custody schedules seriously find legal sanctions highly motivating.

Turn to an Experienced San Antonio Family Lawyer for the Help You Need

If your ex is not bringing your children home when they should, you have options, and the practiced San Antonio family lawyers at Hoelscher Gebbia Cepeda can help you resolve the matter as effectively and efficiently as possible. Your parental rights are important, so please don’t hesitate to reach out and contact us online or call us at 210-222-9132 for more information today.