Ideally, co-parents should put their differences aside when dealing with the children. Unfortunately, it’s not always the case, and conflict plays out even when parenting. For example, your co-parent could deny you access to the children, especially if the divorce was contested.

It can get pretty frustrating and even affect the children mentally and emotionally. So here is what you need to do.

The best interests of the child always come first

In the children’s best interests, both parents should be involved in parenting and nurturing them. The courts are in view of this, and that’s why in most cases, custody is shared, or one of the parents is granted visitation rights when the other has physical custody of the children.

If your co-parent is violating court-issued custody orders, you need first to try and find an amicable solution with them. Dialogue may be a good place to start, but it may be time to escalate issues if your co-parent is not cooperating. Most importantly, do not take matters into your own hands.

Seeking a modification of custody orders

Custody orders are bound to change according to the children’s best interests. If your co-parent is preventing you from accessing the children, you could seek relief by filing a request to the court to enforce or modify the existing custody orders.

Having proof of denied access to the children will help convince the court that something needs to be done. For instance, communication records or statements from the kids could help your case.

Protect your parental rights

As a parent, you have the right to enjoy a relationship with your children, divorce notwithstanding. If your co-parent is infringing upon those rights, you need to act and ensure that you protect your place in the child’s life.