Can father refuse return of passports?

Questioner

My father and I have been separated for 4 years now. We have joint custody. The passports were in my possession until last summer. After my father went on holiday, he refused to return the passports. Now we want to go on holiday again and this year we are going on the May holiday. However, my father only wants to give permission and give me the passports if I sign the agreements he has drawn up. I don't know yet what they are. If I need the passports for other appointments, he doesn't give them to me, but brings them along himself and leaves again immediately. He gives the reason that he doesn't trust me. Can my father just refuse to give me the passports and is it normal that I have to sign agreements he has drawn up for the passports? The children live with me and only go to their father on weekends.

Lawyer

There are several steps you can take to get your children's passports back. Here are some legal options: 1. Talk to your ex. You can request the passports during one of the contact appointments. 2. Mediation: If you need the passports urgently, you may also consider discussing this matter during a mediation session. 3. Court Order: You can request a court order requiring your ex to hand over the passports to you.