If the other parent stops following your custody order, it can be tough. You do your best to follow the rules and keep things steady for your child, but the other parent keeps ignoring the agreement. This situation can be confusing and exhausting. You might wonder What do I do now? Can the court step in?
Yes, the court can help. North Carolina provides ways to enforce a custody order if the other parent will not cooperate. A child custody lawyer in North Carolina can explain your options and guide you through the process if you want to read the law yourself in Chapter 50 of the North Carolina General Statutes.
You do not have to face this alone. Martine Law can help you find stability and protect your time with your child.
Talk to a local North Carolina attorney who can help you with your next steps.
What Behaviors Count as Violating a Custody Order?
A custody order must be followed. If a parent ignores any part of it, the court considers it a violation. These issues may start small but can quickly lead to stress and confusion.
Common violations include:
- Not showing up for exchanges.
- Returning the child late
- Blocking communication
- Canceling visits repeatedly
- Making major decisions alone
- Leaving North Carolina with the child without permission
- Ignoring safety requirements
If you notice these issues, reviewing custody standards can help you understand your rights.
You can also consult a parenting time attorney in North Carolina to determine your next steps.
If your parenting time is being taken from you, Martine Law is ready to help you take action.
How North Carolina Enforces a Custody Order
Judges take custody violations seriously because they disrupt your child’s routine. The court has several ways to address these problems.
1. Contempt of Court
If the judge decides the violation was intentional, they may order:
- Fines
- Attorney fees
- Makeup parenting time
- Jail time in severe cases
2. Makeup Parenting Time
If the other parent caused you to miss time, the court may grant you additional time to make up for it.
3. Updating the Custody Order
If the parent repeatedly violates the order, the judge may modify the order to help prevent future problems.
4. Involving Law Enforcement
In rare cases, the court may authorize the police to assist in the child’s return.
You can learn more about court processes.
Common Custody Violations and Typical Court Responses
| Violation | Example | Court Response | Notes |
| Denying visits | Not attending exchanges | Contempt, makeup time | Courts act quickly |
| Blocking communication | Not allowing phone calls | New communication rules | Judges expect access |
| Acting alone on decisions | Making major choices solo | Change in legal custody | Happens in joint custody |
| Constant cancellations | Last-minute plan changes | Clearer schedule, counseling | Keep all records |
| Leaving NC without permission | Taking a child out of state | Emergency hearing | Viewed as serious |
| Ignoring safety rules | Violating supervision terms | Supervised visits | High priority for judges |
If any of these situations sound familiar, you may have a strong case for enforcement.
Speak with a North Carolina child custody lawyer at Martine Law for guidance.
What You Should Do When the Custody Order Is Not Followed
These steps can help protect your rights and build a strong case.
1. Document Every Infraction
Document every detail that occurred and the time of occurrence, and retain any screenshots or text. Judges rely a lot on evidence.
2. Use Text or Email When Possible
Written communication can reveal patterns of behavior and support your claims.
3. Continue Following the Order
Even if the other parent does not, the court expects you to comply with the order in full.
4. Keep Your Child’s Safety First
If you think your child is unsafe, talk to a lawyer right away or ask the court for emergency help.
5. Meet With a Parenting Time Attorney in North Carolina
A lawyer can explain your options, file the proper paperwork, and represent you in court.
Get clear legal advice today. Schedule a consultation with our team.
When to Contact a Lawyer Right Away
You should get legal help when:
- The violations keep happening.
- You are losing time with your child.
- The other parent refuses communication.
- There are safety concerns.
- The child is not being returned as ordered.
- You feel overwhelmed or unsure what to do.
At Martine Law, we offer strong support, clear communication, and a team that genuinely cares about your case. You deserve help, and your child deserves stability.
Contact us today and let us help you protect your parenting rights.