For divorced parents, navigating custody orders can be challenging enough on its own. It can be especially difficult or frustrating when your child is reluctant or actively fights any established custody orders that may be in place. Perhaps they don’t like spending time with the other parent, or maybe they’re simply overwhelmed from the constant changes and overall stress caused by the divorce. 

Depending on the circumstances at hand, it might be possible for you to request a modification of current child custody or visitation orders. This could help you find an arrangement that works better for everyone. Before that however, it’s important to figure out the root cause as to why your child is resisting the current custody orders. We’ll kick start this discussion by examining how visitation rights function in California. 

How Visitation Rights Work in CA

Generally speaking, the state of California heavily pushes towards custody and visitation arrangements that allow the child to interact and spend time with both parents. This is done for the benefit of the child, as well as all other involved parties and parents should encourage this arrangement from their end. If your child is refusing or unhappy with the arrangement, it’s important that you sit down with them and pinpoint the source of their stress or anxiety. 

In some cases, such as if the child feels unsafe or the current arrangement is inconvenient to a point where it stresses everyone, it might make sense for you to seek out a modification of the existing custody order. 

Modifying an Existing Custody or Visitation Order in CA

Modifying an order isn’t a simple matter of letting the court know what you think, and your best bet to get the ball rolling is to consult with an attorney. The process involves submitting a modification request to the family law courts if and when there has been a significant change that impacts either side’s ability to adhere to the custody order. 

The primary concern here is that there generally has to be a change of circumstances since the initial order was established. An attorney can help review your situation and determine whether a modification makes sense, as well as help you explore alternatives as required. 

Our Experienced CA Divorce Attorneys Can Help

It can be difficult when your child is fighting custody orders and no clear solution is in sight. Know that you’re not in an impossible position however, and our experienced family law attorneys are here to help. Consult with our skilled team at the White Oak Law, where our team of legal pros is standing by to provide tailored solutions. Call us today at 925-271-0999 to connect with our team and schedule an initial consultation.