Can I Stop My Ex From Taking My Kids on a Vacation Trip?

 Posted on June 11, 2025 in Child Custody

When parents separate, they must make custody arrangements for their children. Most parents retain joint legal custody, which gives both of them a say in making major decisions for their kids. In addition, you need to decide on your children’s physical placement. Although some families split the children’s time with each parent somewhat evenly, many times there is a primary custodial parent, with the other having visitation privileges.

It is natural for parents to want to take their children on trips, especially during their summer vacation away from school. However, you may have reason to want to prevent your ex from taking your children on a trip. To understand your parental rights and how the laws apply to your specific case, speak with our skilled Rock County, WI child custody attorney.

Your Specific Custody Arrangements Matter When Making Decisions About Vacations

If both parents have joint legal custody, neither parent can make major decisions that significantly affect the child without consulting the other. Taking children on an out-of-state or international vacation usually qualifies as a major decision.

If you and your co-parent have agreed in writing or have a court order allowing vacation travel, either parent can generally take the kids where they wish. If there is no agreement, the parent planning the trip should notify the other parent well in advance and get their consent.

However, circumstances may have changed since your custody orders were put in place. You may have legitimate concerns about allowing your children to travel with your ex, for example:

• It could interfere with your scheduled parenting time

• It might put your children’s well-being or safety at risk

• You may not have received enough notice of the trip

• There is a risk that your children might not be returned to you when scheduled

• The trip could have been planned without your agreement

You cannot always keep your ex from planning a trip with your children. The best thing you can do is contact our office. We can evaluate your situation, explain your legal options, and help you decide on the best course of action.

Let Our Lawyer Handle Your Objections to Your Children Traveling With Your Ex

If you already have concerns about a proposed trip, there is probably animosity between you and your co-parent. Trying to convince him or her not to go on the planned vacation may cause additional arguments.

We can help you handle the situation effectively, tailoring our approach based on your specific circumstances, concerns, and goals. After reviewing your custody and placement orders for travel provisions and other applicable stipulations, we may be able to help you reach an agreement with your ex. The best option might be to request permission from the court to block the trip. We may ask for a temporary order to prevent travel until the court can reach a decision on the matter.

In extreme cases, you may wish to request a modification of your custody orders. The court always prioritizes whatever is deemed to protect the best interests of your children. We can assist with modifications through the proper channels.

Discuss Your Concerns With Our Experienced Madison, WI Child Custody Lawyer

Co-parenting disputes like these are often complicated and challenging, but our knowledgeable Dane County, WI family law attorney can help you navigate the legal issues. Contact John T. Fields & Associates, LLC today at 608-729-3590 or online to set up an initial consultation.