Co-Parent Constantly Late or Never Shows Up

My kids’ dad is chronically late—he’s on time maybe once a month, and he misses at least one visitation a week without letting me know. He has his family members text me instead of reaching out himself, even though we’re ordered to use Talking Parents to communicate. I’ve documented everything on Talking Parents, but he refuses to text me there. I’ve had to take the kids to work with me because he doesn’t show up. Does anyone know if the court will do anything about this? Can they help in any way?

Document every time he’s late or misses visitation. You could request the court assess him for childcare costs if you have to take the kids to work because of it.

Drew said:
Document every time he’s late or misses visitation. You could request the court assess him for childcare costs if you have to take the kids to work because of it.

Good idea, I’ll make sure to keep detailed records. Thanks!

You can file a motion for contempt if he’s not using the app like the court ordered. His family communicating for him might also violate the agreement. You’re right that they can’t force him to show up on time, but they can help protect your time and financial well-being by modifying the arrangement.

@Talon
That’s good to know. I didn’t realize I could file for contempt for him not using the app.

Create a record of every missed or late pickup in the app. Something like ‘Today is 10/22/2024, visitation was scheduled at 4 pm, and you didn’t arrive, so visitation is forfeit.’ When his family texts you, reply with something similar. Once you have a solid record, talk to a lawyer about the next steps.

@Madden
Thanks for this! I’ll make sure to phrase it clearly when documenting.

You could file for a modification to reduce his visitation to match how often he actually shows up. Also, block all phone numbers except the one he’s supposed to use for the app. Tell him Talking Parents is the only way you’ll communicate going forward.

@Elsa
I hadn’t thought about blocking the other numbers! That might make things easier for sure.