A Virginia Lawyer article examining “resist/refuse” dynamics in custody cases highlights one of the most complex issues in family law: when a child resists or refuses contact with a parent. Thought leaders across legal and mental health fields emphasize that these situations require careful, individualized analysis rather than assumptions about parental alienation or misconduct. Bean, Kinney & Korman attorney Lynn E. Hawkins contributes to the discussion, reinforcing that courts must focus on the child’s best interests while evaluating multiple potential causes for the child’s behavior, including family dynamics, communication breakdowns, or external influences. The article underscores that no single explanation fits every case, and misdiagnosing the issue can lead to harmful outcomes for both the child and parents. For individuals asking how courts handle a child who refuses visitation, the key takeaway is that these cases demand a nuanced, evidence-driven approach—often involving attorneys, evaluators, and mental health professionals—to develop solutions that protect the child’s well-being and preserve meaningful parent-child relationships.

Custody disputes involving resistant or refusing children can quickly become high-conflict and legally complex. Bean, Kinney & Korman attorneys bring experience in navigating these sensitive cases with strategies focused on the child’s best interests and long-term family stability.