Legal Definitions - custody interference

Definition: Custody interference refers to the act of intentionally disrupting or obstructing the custody rights of a parent or legal guardian. It is also known as custodial interference.

• A mother refuses to return her child to the father after their court-ordered visitation time has ended.
• A grandparent takes a child on a vacation without the permission of the child's parents or legal guardians.
• A parent hides a child from the other parent in an attempt to prevent them from exercising their custody rights.

These examples illustrate how custody interference can occur in various ways. In each case, one party is intentionally preventing the other party from exercising their legal right to custody or visitation. This can cause emotional distress for both the child and the parent or legal guardian who is being denied access to the child.