When one parent prevents the other from seeing their child despite a valid court order, it is known as visitation interference. In Greenville, South Carolina, this is not only a disruption to the parenting schedule—it can also have legal consequences. At Sarah Henry Law, we help parents enforce their visitation rights and take legal action when custody or visitation orders are ignored.
Whether you’re dealing with a one-time denial of parenting time or a pattern of ongoing interference, our attorneys guide you through the appropriate legal steps to protect your child’s best interests and your parental rights.
What Is Considered Visitation Interference?
Visitation interference occurs when the custodial parent, or another party, deliberately prevents the non-custodial parent from spending time with the child as ordered by the court. Common examples include:
- Ignoring or refusing to follow the visitation schedule
- Canceling scheduled parenting time without agreement or justification
- Blocking calls, texts, or reasonable communication with the child
- Manipulating the child’s willingness to participate in visits
Under South Carolina family law, a valid visitation order must be respected by both parents. Interference can lead to court intervention, and in repeated or serious cases, it may result in contempt of court proceedings or even changes to legal or physical custody.
Enforcing Visitation Orders in Family Court
If you are experiencing visitation interference, the first step is to document each incident. Keeping a record of denied visits, canceled exchanges, or communication blocks can be crucial when filing a formal complaint.
Our attorneys assist with:
- Filing for contempt of court
- Enforcing the current visitation order
- Requesting makeup parenting time
- Modifying the custody or visitation arrangement if interference continues
South Carolina courts prioritize the child’s best interests and expect both parents to comply with all terms of the custody or visitation order. The court may also impose penalties on a parent who repeatedly violates a visitation agreement.
When Is It Time to Seek Legal Help?
If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies as visitation interference, our attorneys can help you assess your case. You may need legal representation if:
- The other parent regularly refuses visitation without cause
- There is a pattern of late drop-offs, no-shows, or excuses
- The child is being manipulated into avoiding visits
- The custodial parent refuses to adjust the schedule for reasonable changes, such as extracurricular activities or holidays
We also help with cases involving more complex custody disputes, such as joint custody violations, conflicts involving the guardian ad litem, or supervised visitation disagreements.
Addressing Visitation Issues After Divorce
Many visitation problems begin after a divorce is finalized. When parenting time is clearly outlined in a custody order but not followed by one parent, the other parent has the right to return to court for enforcement.
We work with clients who are dealing with:
- Interference in child custody cases after separation
- Disagreements about parenting time or visitation rights
- Issues between a custodial and non-custodial parent
- Requests to change or clarify an existing order due to ongoing conflict
If needed, we can also help file a request to modify the custody order based on a material change in circumstances, including repeated interference or concern for the child’s well-being.
Protecting the Child’s Interests and Parental Rights
The court’s goal in all custody or visitation matters is to protect the child’s best interests. While one parent may believe they are acting with good intentions, taking matters into their own hands can backfire legally.
If safety is truly a concern, such as in situations involving domestic violence or substance abuse, we can help you file for a change in visitation or a supervised visitation order. Otherwise, visitation interference should be addressed through the legal process—not through unilateral decisions.
Why Choose Sarah Henry Law for Visitation Enforcement
Our attorneys have extensive experience handling child custody and visitation disputes in Greenville and throughout South Carolina. Whether you have sole custody, joint custody, or are seeking to establish or enforce a visitation schedule, we offer:
- Legal representation in Greenville family court
- Assistance with contempt of court actions
- Guidance on modifying a custody or visitation order
- Support navigating conflicts with the other parent
We understand how difficult and emotional these situations can be. Our role is to protect your parenting rights and ensure that court orders are followed.
Learn more about Greenville Visitation Interference Help. Call Sarah Henry Law at (864) 478-8324 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward resolution and peace of mind.
Greenville Visitation Interference FAQs
What should I do if the other parent won’t follow the visitation schedule?
Document every instance and contact a child custody lawyer. You may be able to file a contempt motion in court and request enforcement of your visitation rights.
Can the custodial parent stop visitation if they disagree with it?
No. The custodial parent must follow the existing court order unless the court grants a formal modification. Taking matters into their own hands could lead to legal consequences.
What are the penalties for visitation interference?
Penalties can include fines, attorney’s fees, makeup visitation time, or even changes to custody. In serious cases, the interfering parent could be held in contempt of court.
Can I change the custody arrangement if interference continues?
Yes. If one parent repeatedly interferes with visitation, the other parent can request a modification based on a material change in circumstances.
What if my child says they don’t want to visit?
Unless there is a court-ordered change, both parents must comply with the custody order. If your child expresses discomfort, consider discussing the matter with your attorney and possibly involving a guardian ad litem.
