My Ex Is Not Following a Custody or Support Order. What Should I Track?
My Ex Is Not Following a Custody or Support Order. What Should I Track?
When an existing custody or support order is not being followed, it can be frustrating and stressful. The first thing to do is make sure you have the full written order and understand exactly what it says. Then, track what is actually happening.
California Courts explain that clear and detailed custody orders can be easier to follow and enforce. If an order is vague, or if the other parent is not following a clear order, an attorney may want to review the order and the facts.
Prime Attorneys can help connect you with attorneys who may be able to review your family law matter. Call or contact us for a free consult.
Start with the order itself
Save the full order, including all pages and attachments. If the order covers custody, parenting time, child support, spousal support, transportation, communication, or other rules, keep those sections together.
During a consultation, the attorney may compare the exact wording of the order with what has been happening in real life.
Track missed visits or schedule problems
If the issue involves custody or parenting time, keep a calendar showing missed visits, late pickups, late drop-offs, denied parenting time, last-minute changes, or conflicts over exchanges. Include dates, times, and any messages related to the issue.
Try to keep notes factual. For example: “Exchange scheduled for Friday at 5:00 p.m.; other parent arrived at 7:15 p.m.; text message sent at 5:20 p.m.”
Track missed or partial support payments
If the issue involves child support or spousal support, track payment dates, amounts, missed payments, partial payments, and how payments were made. Save bank records, payment screenshots, agency records, receipts, or written messages about payments.
If a local child support agency is involved, save letters, notices, payment histories, and case information.
Save written communication
Messages can help explain what happened and when. Save emails, texts, parenting-app messages, or letters related to missed parenting time, support payments, schedule changes, or refusal to follow the order.
It is usually better to save full conversations rather than isolated screenshots so the context is clear.
How Prime Attorneys can help
If your ex is not following a custody or support order, Prime Attorneys can help connect you with attorneys who may be able to review your situation. Call or contact us for a free consult.
FAQ
Track the date, time, what the order required, what actually happened, and any written communications about the issue.
Track payment dates, amounts, missed payments, partial payments, payment method, agency notices, and written communications.
Yes. The full court order is important because an attorney may need to compare the order with what is happening in practice.
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