One issue facing many individuals is trying to locate a spouse who denies them visitation rights with their child following a divorce. When this happens, a messy legal battle may ensue even if both parties are looking out for the best interests of the child. The divorce may be messy, but when one party does not obey a court order for visitation rights, it can get even worse.

There are countless situations in which one party decides to move to another part of the country or to another country entirely to start a new life, for a new job or after meeting somebody new. When this happens, it is important to hammer out the visitation schedule and rights of the non-custodial parent. Visiting over school vacations or summer is an option, while others decide to meet halfway to leave the child with the custodial parent for the agreed upon duration and then meet halfway again to leave the child with the custodial parent.

Technology also helps non-custodial parents lessen the burden of long-distance. Video messaging and instant messaging are good ways to maintain a relationship with their child and may be a cheaper option than calling on a cell phone or long distance. But what happens when your ex-spouse moves away and doesn’t tell you where he or she is moving nor does he or she inform you of how to get into contact with your child?

The first thing that many do is consult a lawyer to discuss their options. If the custodial parent is in direct violation of a court order, having that court order on your side will be a big boon for your case. If you do not have a court order granting visitation rights, getting one may be the next step to see your child. As far as child support goes, you must still obey a court order to pay child support if one exists, but if you are unable to locate your ex-spouse, making payments may be difficult. Once again, speaking with an attorney and handling the situation through the court system is often the best way to protect yourself from violating any court order.