What to Do if the Other Parent Won't Sign Passport Document Before Summer Trip?

If you have a court order stating that both parents must cooperate in obtaining and exchanging a passport for your child, but the other parent refuses to comply, you have legal options to enforce the order. Here’s what you can do to help resolve the situation and ensure your child’s travel plans are not disrupted.

1. Review Your Court Order

• Start by carefully reviewing your court order to confirm the specific terms regarding passport issuance and exchanges. If the order explicitly states that the other parent must sign documents or provide the passport, their refusal could be a violation of the agreement.

2. Document the Noncompliance

• Keep detailed records of your attempts to get the other parent to comply, including:
• Emails, texts, or written requests for their signature or the passport exchange.
• Their responses (or lack of response).
• Any previous history of compliance or noncompliance.
• This documentation can serve as evidence if you need to go to court.

3. Send a Formal Demand Letter

• If the other parent is uncooperative, consider having your attorney send a formal demand letter reminding them of their legal obligation. This letter should:
• Reference the court order. Outline their requirement to sign or exchange the passport. Warn of potential legal consequences for failing to comply.
• Sometimes, this step alone is enough to prompt cooperation.

4. File a Motion to Enforce the Court Order

If the other parent still refuses to sign or exchange the passport, you can file a motion to enforce the order. The court may:

• Order the parent to comply immediately.

• Impose penalties or sanctions for noncompliance.

• Grant you the ability to obtain or hold the passport without their interference.

5. Seek a Court Order for Sole Passport Authority

If the other parent consistently refuses to cooperate, you can petition the court to modify your order, granting you sole authority to handle passport matters. Courts may approve this request if there is a pattern of interference.

Please contact us today to determine your options legal options. Book your consultation today to start the process by clicking here or give us a call at 832-844-1677.

Attorney, Ashley Nicole Green is a  family, divorce, and child custody attorney who services clients in Houston, Harris, Fort Bend, Brazoria, Galveston, and Matagorda County! Contact the Law Office of A. Green today to schedule consultation!

You can always connect with us via phone 832-844-1677 or via email at agreenteam@lawofficegreen.com