Can I Deny Visitation if My Ex Has a New Girlfriend? 

 Posted on May 08, 2025 in Family Law

Breakups are rarely easy, especially when children are involved. If your ex has started seeing someone new, whether you and your ex were previously married or not, you might be worried about who your child is spending time with during visitation (known as "parenting time" in Illinois).

Such worries are normal and understandable. However, unless there is a serious risk to your child’s safety, Illinois law does not allow a parent to deny court-ordered visitation simply because of a new relationship. Contact our DuPage County, IL child custody lawyers to learn more.

What Rights Does Your Ex Have to Visitation?

Parenting time with children is a parent’s legal right, protected by Illinois law. Once a custody order is entered by the court, both parents are expected to follow it. If your ex is granted parenting time, they generally have the right to decide who is around the child during their time — including a new partner.

Even if you strongly dislike your ex’s new girlfriend, that alone is not enough to stop visitation. A parent who denies court-ordered parenting time without a valid reason could face serious consequences, including being held in contempt of court.

When Could Visitation Be Limited or Denied?

The court will only restrict or deny visitation if it finds that the child’s physical, emotional, or mental well-being is in danger. If you believe your ex’s new girlfriend is a threat to your child — for example, if she has a history of abuse, substance use, or criminal activity — you may need to bring that concern to the court with evidence.

Potential safety-related concerns might include:

• A new partner who has been convicted of violent crimes or child abuse

• Someone living in the household who is using illegal drugs

• Exposure to unsafe or inappropriate behavior in the home

A family court will evaluate these claims carefully. The parent requesting a change must be able to show specific facts that support limiting or modifying the parenting time arrangement.

What Should You Do if You Are Concerned About Your Ex’s New Girlfriend?

If you have concerns about your child’s safety, the best step is to document your observations and speak with an attorney. Your lawyer can help you request a modification of your parenting plan or bring an emergency motion to the court if the situation is urgent. Taking matters into your own hands — like refusing to allow visitation — can backfire legally.

Contact a Naperville Child Custody Lawyer

To protect your child and understand your rights, speak with a Bloomingdale, IL family law attorney at Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices by calling 630-932-9100. We can help you take the appropriate legal steps to address your concerns without risking your own parenting rights, and we offer free consultations.