I’m seeking advice on a concern regarding privacy during video calls with my children as part of a court-ordered custody arrangement. The court order explicitly states that I have the right to privacy during my video calls with my children and that neither parent is allowed to discuss court matters with the children. The other parent has violated the privacy requirement by being present during the calls. I’ve started asking my child to confirm their surroundings to ensure privacy, but the other parent claims this is an invasion of her privacy and has instructed my child not to comply. She has also implied that if I continue asking for privacy confirmation, she may interfere with or stop my calls altogether. Additionally, despite the court’s order to avoid discussing court-related matters with our children, the other parent has involved my child in this issue, discussing her objections with him directly. I’m concerned that her actions are violating the court order, and it’s creating tension in our co-parenting dynamic. What legal steps can I take to ensure compliance with the court order?
It sounds like a clear violation of the court order if the other parent is refusing to let you confirm privacy during your calls. If the court says you’re entitled to private communication, then you should be allowed to ensure that. Have you been documenting these incidents?
@Morgan
Yes, I’ve been documenting every instance where privacy isn’t being ensured. I’m also concerned about how she’s discussing these issues with our child, which the court order specifically says we shouldn’t do.
@Cleo
It seems like she’s violating the order in two ways: by not respecting your right to privacy during the calls and by involving your child in matters the court said shouldn’t be discussed with them. Filing a motion for enforcement or contempt could be a way to make sure she complies.
If the other parent is refusing to let your child confirm privacy, it seems like a clear violation of the court order. You might want to consult an attorney about how to move forward. Also, her discussing the issue with your child directly is a problem if the court specifically ordered you both not to involve the children in court matters.
@Will
That’s exactly my concern. I’m worried about how her behavior is affecting our child. I didn’t want to involve him in any of this, but now she’s put him in the middle.
You’re definitely within your rights to ask for privacy confirmation if the court order specifies that. If she continues to obstruct your calls or stops them altogether, that could also be a violation, and you could take legal action. Documenting everything is key.
@Noor
I’ve been documenting everything, but I’m worried that if she continues to stop our son from confirming privacy, my calls with him will just stop altogether. It’s a tough situation.
It sounds like the other parent is trying to control the situation by involving your child in issues that shouldn’t concern him, which could be considered a form of alienation. You might want to consult with a lawyer to discuss your options for ensuring compliance with the order and protecting your relationship with your child.
@Kerr
I was thinking the same thing—it does feel like a form of alienation. I’ve been trying to keep things calm, but it’s hard when she’s putting him in the middle like this. I’m not sure what else to do.
If the other parent is threatening to stop the video calls or manipulating your child to resist confirming privacy, you should take legal action to enforce the order. You could file a motion for contempt or enforcement, especially if she’s actively blocking your court-ordered right to communicate with your children.
@Finley
I’m worried that if she convinces our son to follow her instructions, I won’t be able to confirm privacy, and my calls with him will end. I’m not sure if continuing the calls without privacy confirmation is the right thing to do.