Can My Ex Stop Me From Taking My Child on Vacation?

By Michael Ferguson

Going on vacation with your child is an exciting experience, but what happens if your ex-partner tries to stop you from taking your child on a trip? As a parent, you have the right to take your child on vacation, but there are certain things you need to consider before making any plans.

Legal considerations

The first thing you need to do is check the legal custody agreement that you have with your ex-partner. If you have joint custody, then both parents have equal rights to make decisions about the child’s welfare. In this case, it’s important that both parents agree on the vacation plans.

If one parent has sole custody, then they have the right to make all decisions regarding the child’s welfare. However, even in this case, it’s important that you inform your ex-partner about your vacation plans and get their permission.

Communication is key

It’s important to keep open communication with your ex-partner about your vacation plans. Let them know where you’re going and how long you’ll be gone for. Provide them with a detailed itinerary so they know where their child will be at all times.

If your ex-partner has concerns about the safety or well-being of their child during the trip, address those concerns and come up with a plan together to alleviate them.

Get it in writing

Once you’ve agreed on the vacation plans with your ex-partner, it’s important to get everything in writing. This could be in the form of an email or a letter outlining the details of the trip and confirming that both parties have agreed to it.

If possible, get this agreement signed by both parties so there is no confusion or dispute later on.

What if my ex-partner still refuses?

If after communicating with your ex-partner and trying to come up with a plan together they still refuse to let you take your child on vacation, you may need to seek legal advice.

In some cases, you may need to go to court to get permission to take your child on the trip. It’s important to have all documentation and evidence ready to support your case.

Conclusion

Going on vacation with your child is an exciting experience, but it’s important that you follow the legal considerations and keep open communication with your ex-partner. Getting everything in writing and seeking legal advice if necessary can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable vacation for everyone involved.