Teenager doesn't want to visit non-custodial parent

Family Law
1

In Texas, my child’s custody was settled when they were under two years old, and now they’re almost sixteen. I’m the custodial parent living in Texas, while the non-custodial parent resides in New England. Typically, they only communicate with my child via phone a few times annually, and every couple of years, my child visits them in New England.

A visit is scheduled soon, but my child doesn’t want to go. They claim the non-custodial parent treats them poorly, body-shames, and insults them, though there’s been no physical abuse. If I respect my child’s wish and let them stay home, does this violate custody laws? Our agreement allows for “reasonable access,” and I’m not preventing the trip—it’s entirely my child’s decision not to go.

Question:

Could I be making a mistake by allowing this?

Also, it’s worth noting the non-custodial parent has already bought round-trip airline tickets for this visit, despite being significantly behind on child support payments, owing roughly $15K-$20K.In Texas, my child’s custody was settled when they were under two years old, and now they’re almost sixteen. I’m the custodial parent living in Texas, while the non-custodial parent resides in New England. Typically, they only communicate with my child via phone a few times annually, and every couple of years, my child visits them in New England.

A visit is scheduled soon, but my child doesn’t want to go. They claim the non-custodial parent treats them poorly, body-shames, and insults them, though there’s been no physical abuse. If I respect my child’s wish and let them stay home, does this violate custody laws? Our agreement allows for “reasonable access,” and I’m not preventing the trip—it’s entirely my child’s decision not to go.

Could I be making a mistake by allowing this? Also, it’s worth noting the non-custodial parent has already bought round-trip airline tickets for this visit, despite being significantly behind on child support payments, owing roughly $15K-$20K.

2

A sixteen-year-old cannot be made to visit a parent by the police. In the absence of an arrest warrant, they won’t intervene. The police would take no action if the son’s father took him to his mother’s house and he refused to get out of the car. Authorities could arrest an adult who attempted to coerce him out of the car.

3

If the custodial parent fails to ensure the custody order is followed, the non-custodial parent can pursue contempt charges and is likely to succeed. As many of us understand, parenting often involves ensuring children fulfill obligations they may resist. Nonetheless, you have the option to request a modification. Depending on the child’s age, their preferences might influence future contact arrangements.

4

Is there a scenario where a child adamantly refuses, leaving the custodial parent with no choice but physical intervention? I’m not suggesting this, just wondering about legal implications like contempt versus potential assault charges.