What should I do if my co-parent ignores the court order?
You feel frustrated and want the problem to be taken seriously.
Last reviewed May 07, 2026
Short answer
Start with the exact order language, then write what happened, when it happened, and what record supports it. Keep your notes factual.
Start with the order
Find the current order and the part related to the problem.
Do not rely only on memory or summaries.
Write the event
Write the date, time, what was expected, and what happened.
Keep it short and observable.
Save the source
Attach messages, calendar records, pickup notes, or other records.
Connect each event to the order it relates to.
Ask for process help when needed
Order problems can involve local process questions.
Use court self-help, legal aid, or a lawyer for legal options.
What to do first
Copy the order date and topic into a note, then add one dated event that relates to it.
What to save
- Current order
- Order section or topic
- Dated event notes
- Messages or records
- Child-related impact
- Questions for legal help
What to avoid
- Calling names in the record
- Guessing motives
- Using an old order by mistake
- Sending heated messages about the order
Start with one small step
Save the order, the event, and the source record together so the issue is easier to review.
Track an order issueEqualora is educational software. This is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship.