My Teen Broke Curfew in Nevada. Can My Ex Use It to Change Our Custody Agreement?

You’re asleep when your phone rings. It’s the police. Your heart races as you hear that your teenager was caught breaking curfew. Panic, guilt, fear—they all flood in at once. But beyond the immediate worry about your child’s safety lies a deeper, legal concern: Could this single mistake affect your custody arrangement?

This isn’t just a minor ticket. In Nevada, even a small juvenile infraction can potentially become a lever in a custody dispute. Understanding the risks—and acting quickly—can make all the difference in protecting your rights as a parent.

Nevada’s Curfew Laws: The Local Ordinances Your Ex’s Attorney May Use

It is essential to know that curfew hours are established by local city and county ordinances, not statewide law. This means the specific times vary depending on whether you live in Las Vegas, Reno, Henderson, or unincorporated Clark County.

For example, a common ordinance (such as in the City of Las Vegas) for minors under 18 often sets curfew hours:

• Sunday–Thursday: 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM
• Friday–Saturday/Non-School Days: 12:00 AM (midnight) to 5:00 AM

Violating a local curfew ordinance can result in a citation, fines (up to $300 or more), community service, or involvement with the juvenile justice system (e.g., a “Status Offense” or “Child in Need of Supervision” finding). While these penalties might seem minor, an attorney could attempt to frame the violation as evidence of poor parental supervision or a failure to enforce rules—an angle your ex might use if they aim to modify custody.

Remember, this is not about criminal guilt—it’s about how it might appear in a family law context.

Law enforcement plays a key role in enforcing curfew laws and ensuring safety in Nevada communities

The Bridge: How a Curfew Ticket Becomes a Custody Battle Weapon

In Nevada, custody decisions are governed by the “Best Interests of the Child” standard (NRS 125C.0035). To modify an existing custody order, the requesting parent must first prove there has been a substantial change in circumstances affecting the child’s welfare, and second, that the modification is in the child’s best interest.

A pattern of juvenile issues, including curfew violations, can be used by an ex to request a custody modification by claiming:

• Substantial change in circumstances: “This incident, or pattern of incidents, shows an ongoing disregard for rules and the child’s safety.”
• Parental negligence: Suggesting a lack of appropriate supervision, guidance, or control necessary for a teen’s development.
• Safety concerns: Arguing that the teen’s behavior reflects an unsafe or unstable environment in your home.

Possible outcomes they might request include:

• Reduced unsupervised visitation
• Supervised parenting time during evenings or weekends
• Mandatory counseling or behavior programs for the teen (which can shift financial burdens)

Even a single, severe infraction or a minor, repeated pattern can suddenly feel like a significant legal lever in custody negotiations.

Proactive Defense: 5 Steps to Protect Your Parental Rights Immediately

You can’t erase the mistake, but you can control the narrative. Here’s how to demonstrate responsibility and diligence to the court:

• Document Everything: Keep detailed records of the incident, police reports, and your immediate, responsible responses. Documentation demonstrates responsible parenting.
• Communicate Carefully: Avoid arguing with your ex about blame. Stick to factual updates about the teen’s well-being and avoid statements that could be twisted and used against you in court.
• Show Consistent Supervision: Actively track your teen’s routines, curfew adherence, and school performance. Proof of overall diligence matters more than a single incident.
• Enroll in Support Programs: Proactively enrolling your teen in counseling, or yourself in parenting classes, signals to the court that you are addressing the issue head-on and taking corrective action.
• Consult a Skilled Attorney Immediately: Early legal guidance ensures you understand the risks and can craft a strong defense before your ex formally files for a modification.

These steps help show the court that your teen’s misstep is being properly managed and does not reflect a pattern of neglect or irresponsibility on your part.

How an Attorney with Both Family & Juvenile Law Experience Can Help

At The Rosenblum Allen Law Firm, our goal is to protect your parental rights and preserve your relationship with your child. A firm with experience in both family and juvenile law can:

• Evaluate how Nevada curfew laws intersect with custody rules
• Advise on documentation and communication strategies
• Represent you in negotiations or court if an ex seeks modification
• Focus on solutions that keep your child safe without unnecessarily restricting your parenting time

You don’t have to face this alone. Contact our family law attorneys in Las Vegas or Henderson today at (702) 433-2889 or through our contact page for a strategic consultation. Acting early is the best way to protect both your teen and your parental rights.