When a Child Refuses Visitation: What California Courts Expect from Parents

Shared custody arrangements depend on both parents honoring the terms of the court’s order, but what happens when a child doesn’t want to participate? Whether due to age, emotional distress, or influence from one parent, visitation refusal by a child raises challenging questions. Can a parent be blamed? Is the order still enforceable? What steps should you take to protect your legal standing?

At Land Legal Group, our experienced Los Angeles family law attorneys assist parents in addressing complex custody and visitation issues, including those that arise when children resist seeing the other parent. If you’re facing this situation, here’s what California courts expect from you.

Court Orders Are Not Optional—Even for Children

In California, a custody and visitation order is a binding legal document that both parents must follow.

Although children may have strong feelings about visitation, those feelings do not override the court’s authority. Until the order is modified, both parents are expected to comply with its terms. That means the parent with physical custody during a scheduled exchange is legally obligated to make the child available for visitation with the other parent.

Simply put, “the child didn’t want to go” is not considered a valid legal excuse for violating a court order. This doesn’t mean children don’t have a voice, but it does mean parents have a duty to encourage their children to comply.

What Parents Are Expected to Do When a Child Refuses Visitation

Courts expect parents to make reasonable, good-faith efforts to ensure visitation happens.

If your child is resisting time with the other parent, your legal obligation includes:

• Notifying the other parent promptly if issues arise.
• Encouraging the child to attend and explaining that it’s required by court order.
• Avoiding language or behavior that could influence or validate the refusal.
• Documenting your efforts to comply and any reasons the child provided.
• Considering counseling or parenting coordination when resistance becomes persistent.

Failing to take these steps could expose you to contempt proceedings or accusations of custodial interference, especially if the other parent seeks court enforcement.

When a Child’s Refusal Signals a Deeper Issue

Repeated refusal may indicate a more serious concern that requires legal intervention.

A child’s unwillingness to attend visitation could stem from legitimate fears, emotional conflict, or alienation. If you believe the visitation arrangement is no longer in your child’s best interests, you must seek a formal custody modification, not take matters into your own hands.

California courts may consider the child’s preferences in some instances—especially if the child is age 14 or older—but they will look at the totality of the circumstances, including the behavior and influence of both parents.

Protecting Your Legal Standing Starts with the Right Strategy

If your child refuses visitation, how you respond matters as much as the refusal itself.

At Land Legal Group, we help parents navigate these emotionally charged situations with clarity and legal precision. Whether you’re seeking to enforce an order, respond to resistance, or request a modification, our experienced Los Angeles family law attorneys will advocate for your rights and help you protect your child’s well-being.

Take the Next Step with Confidence

If your child is resisting visitation and you’re unsure how to respond, you don’t have to face it alone. At Land Legal Group, we offer strategic and compassionate guidance to parents navigating complex custody challenges throughout Los Angeles County and its surrounding areas.

Contact us today at (310) 552-3500 or online to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced California family law attorney.

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