Managing Visitation Rights: How a Child Custody Attorney Can Assist

Divorce and separation can be very complicated, especially for parents who have to deal with child custody and visitation rights. While it's always best for parents to come to an amicable agreement about child custody and visitation, sometimes it's just not possible. When it comes to visitation rights, it's crucial to make sure that the child's welfare and safety are the top priority. This is where a child custody attorney can help. The following post explores how a child custody attorney can assist you with visitation rights and provide you with essential information that may help you navigate this process.

Understanding Visitation Rights:

As per law, parents have the right to visit their children unless there are safety concerns involved. Visitation rights are granted when both parents have joint custody or one parent has sole physical custody. Nevertheless, the court retains the authority to impose visitation limitations or restrictions should there be legitimate concerns regarding the child's safety or well-being. 

Changing Visitation Arrangements:

What happens if one parent wants to change the current visitation arrangements? This can happen due to numerous reasons. One parent may have relocated, had a change in work schedule, or the child's needs may have changed. In such cases, it is crucial to communicate with your ex-spouse the reason for the change and try to come up with a mutually agreeable solution. If you can't reach an agreement, a child custody attorney can help. A child custody attorney can work with the court to modify the existing visitation order to ensure the best interests of the child are protected.

Enforcing Visitation Rights:

What happens if one parent is not following the visitation schedule, or the other parent has denied visitation? A child custody attorney can help file a motion to enforce the visitation order, which will require the noncompliant parent to adhere to the visitation schedules. The court may also impose penalties or fines on the noncompliant parent if they refuse to follow the visitation order.

Addressing Safety Concerns:

If there are concerns regarding the safety or well-being of a child while under the other parent's care, it is imperative to promptly take legal action. Engaging the services of a child custody attorney can aid in filing an emergency motion to modify the visitation order or restrict the parent's visitation rights. The court will conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine if there is an imminent threat to the child's safety and well-being. A child custody attorney can also help you get a restraining or protective order if required.

Dealing with visitation rights can be an emotional and challenging process for both parents and children. It's essential to get the necessary assistance from a child custody attorney to ensure that your child's welfare and safety are protected. Seeking the guidance of a child custody attorney can prove invaluable. They possess the expertise to clarify your rights, modify visitation arrangements, enforce visitation orders, address safety concerns, and provide essential legal assistance. 

For more information, contact a child custody attorney in your area.