Other Parent Keeps Missing Their Scheduled Visitations

 Posted on February 19, 2024 in Visitation

Co-parenting after a separation or divorce can be challenging. When one parent consistently misses scheduled visitations with the children, it causes understandable frustration and hurt for everyone involved. An Illinois family law attorney can help you navigate this difficult situation. Both parents have certain custody and visitation rights with their children in Illinois unless a court has ordered otherwise due to exceptional circumstances. When one parent denies the other parent court-ordered visitation with the children without valid cause, it may be considered contempt of court.

If you are the parent being denied visitation that you are legally entitled to, you can file a petition for a rule to show cause why the other parent should not be held in contempt. At the hearing, the judge will allow both sides to present evidence and testimony concerning missed visitations and may order make-up visitation time or other remedies to ensure compliance going forward. Documentation is key whenever visitation is denied contrary to a court order.

Impact on Children

While the legal issues are important to address, it is important to consider how missed visits affect the children. Regardless of the reasons, when one parent fails to show up for visits, children often internalize feelings of abandonment, resentment, or low self-worth. They may act out their hurt in other relationships as well.

As a reliable parent, continue being a steady, loving force in their lives. Encourage them to share their feelings. Seek age-appropriate counseling if needed to help them process the rejection they feel when the other parent misses scheduled time together.

Moving Forward Positively

If past problems with missed visits seem to be resolved, cautiously rebuild trust where possible for the sake of the children. However, you still have legal options if the pattern continues. For the absent parent, take accountability and apologize directly to the children without excuses. Ask what you can do to rebuild broken connections. Inform the other parent in advance of legitimate emergencies that will require rescheduling, then follow through promptly on making up the missed time.

In closing, I encourage any Illinois parent facing issues related to visitation and custody agreements to seek legal counsel promptly. Protecting relationships with your children is paramount. There are constructive solutions available when cooperation breaks down between co-parents, but early intervention is best. My firm can help assess your situation and advocate for your rights while keeping the best interests of the children first and foremost. Schedule an initial consultation to discuss your individual circumstances in depth.

Contact a DuPage County, IL Family Law Attorney

Going through child visitation and having one parent consistently miss their day can be frustrating. It is hard on the child, and it can cause an entire host of legal concerns. A Naperville, IL family law lawyer can look over the details of your circumstances and see what the potential is to move forward with a case. Call Pesce Law Group, P.C. at 630-352-2240 for a free consultation.