How to address safety concerns in custody court due to unauthorized calls and child's fear?

Question

I am involved in a custody case where I have screen shots showing that the other parent calls our child at unauthorized times using an app not mentioned in the court order. He currently has temporary visitation rights. My child has expressed fear, stating that the other parent stares at her, sleeps in the same bed, and only feeds her once during visits. How can I address these issues in custody court to ensure my child's safety and well-being during visitations?

James L. Arrasmith · Answer

To address the safety concerns in custody court, you should start by presenting the screenshots showing the unauthorized calls and the app that was used outside the court order. This evidence can demonstrate that the other parent is not following the agreed-upon visitation schedule. It's important to highlight that the calls may be disruptive or inappropriate if they violate the terms of the court order. 
 
Additionally, you can bring up your child's expressed fear about the other parent's behavior during visitations. The fact that your child feels uncomfortable, especially about issues like sharing a bed and not being properly fed, is critical to present in court. You can request a child welfare evaluation or professional testimony to assess the child's emotional well-being and safety during these visits. 
 
In court, request that the visitation arrangement be adjusted to ensure your child's safety and comfort. This might include restricting the use of unauthorized apps, setting clear rules about communication times, or even altering the visitation structure if the concerns are serious. A judge will likely prioritize your child's safety and well-being when making any decisions.

Q: How to address safety concerns in custody court due to unauthorized calls and child's fear?