Can You Prevent Your Ex’s New Partner from Being Around Your Child?

Co-parenting after a divorce is challenging—especially when one parent introduces a new significant other into the child’s life. If you’re concerned about your ex’s new partner negatively influencing your child, you may wonder if you can restrict contact.

While courts prioritize the best interests of the child, limiting a parent's ability to introduce a new partner requires specific legal grounds. This guide explains common concerns, legal options, and what Indiana courts consider when modifying parenting time.

Common Concerns About Your Ex’s New Significant Other

A parent's right to introduce a new partner does not automatically mean they can put the child in harm’s way. However, Indiana courts require substantial evidence before restricting a child’s exposure to a third party.

Here are common concerns that could justify a request to limit contact:

1. Exposure to Unsafe or Harmful Behavior

✅ Your ex’s new partner has a criminal background, including violent crimes or a history of domestic abuse.
✅ The individual is a registered sex offender or has a record of child endangerment.
✅ There is evidence of drug or alcohol abuse in the household.

2. Caretaking Responsibilities

✅ The new partner is disciplining the child inappropriately.
✅ The child is frequently left in the care of the new partner, even when the other parent is available.

3. Negative Lifestyle Changes

✅ Your ex’s behavior has changed, such as staying out late, partying, or prioritizing the new relationship over the child.
✅ The new partner is causing emotional distress to the child.

📌 If you have concerns, document them carefully. Courts require specific evidence to justify modifying parenting time.

Can the Court Limit Contact Between Your Child and Your Ex’s Partner?

When the Court is Unlikely to Intervene

❌ If you simply disapprove of the relationship or feel that the introduction was "too soon."
❌ If the new partner has no history of harmful behavior and the child is safe.
❌ If the concern is awkwardness or discomfort rather than a safety issue.

When the Court May Restrict Contact

✅ If you can demonstrate that the new partner poses a legitimate risk to the child’s safety or emotional well-being.
✅ If there is a substantial change in circumstances that negatively affects the child’s best interests.
✅ If the child’s well-being has significantly declined due to the new relationship.

📌 Learn more about the best interests of the child standard:
Understanding the Best Interests of the Child Standard

Steps to Protect Your Child from an Unfit Third Party

1. Document Concerning Behavior

✔ Keep a parenting time journal to log any incidents.
✔ Save text messages, emails, or social media posts that show concerning behavior.
✔ Obtain witness statements from teachers, caregivers, or relatives who have observed issues.

📌 Learn how to track parenting time effectively:
Winning Custody: The Power of a Parenting Time Journal

2. Talk to Your Ex (If Possible)

✔ Express your concerns calmly and respectfully to see if an agreement can be reached.
✔ Consider co-parenting counseling to discuss child-related concerns with a neutral mediator.

📌 Find co-parenting strategies here:
Winning Custody: Co-Parenting Strategies

3. File a Petition to Modify Parenting Time

✔ If the situation poses a genuine risk, you may need to request a modification of parenting time in court.
✔ Courts will review evidence and determine whether limiting contact serves the child’s best interests.

📌 Learn how to modify custody orders:
How to Modify a Child Custody Order in Indiana

4. Seek Legal Counsel

✔ An experienced family law attorney can assess your situation and help you present a strong case.
✔ Legal representation ensures your concerns are effectively communicated to the court.

Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Child’s Well-Being

While it may be frustrating to see your ex introduce a new partner, courts require substantial proof before restricting a parent’s decisions. If your ex’s new partner poses a genuine risk, gathering evidence and consulting a lawyer is essential.

📞 Need to modify parenting time? Call or text Vining Legal at (317) 759-3225 or Schedule a Consultation today.