It can be extremely frustrating when your ex-spouse refuses to cooperate with custody arrangements. You may feel like you have no recourse and that you're powerless to do anything about the situation. However, there are actually a few things you can do to try to remedy the situation.
The first thing you can do if your ex-spouse is refusing to cooperate with custody arrangements is to try to talk to them. See if there is any way to come to a compromise. It may be helpful to sit down and have a calm, rational conversation about the situation. Try to see things from their perspective and see if there is any room for negotiation.
If you're able to reach an agreement, great! If not, at least you will have tried everything you can before taking further legal action.
Consult an Attorney
If talking to your ex doesn't work, you may need to consult with an attorney. They can help you understand your legal options and what steps you need to take in order to protect your rights. It may be that communication from your lawyer to your ex-spouse is enough to straighten things out.
File Contempt of Court
If all else fails, you can always file for contempt of court. This is typically reserved for cases where the other parent is blatantly disregarding a court order. For example, if they are supposed to pick up the child at 3pm but don't show up until 6pm, you may be able to file for contempt of court.
The process of filing for contempt of court can be complex, so it's important to consult with an attorney beforehand. They can help you understand the process and make sure that you have a strong case.
Contempt of court is serious business, so it's not something that you should take lightly. However, if your ex-spouse refuses to cooperate with custody arrangements, it may be the only way to get them to finally take your situation seriously.