Visitation Agreements: An Overview

While a family law judge will try to do their best to make sure both parents are included in the children's life despite a divorce, custody agreements are not always so simple. While shared custody is often the goal, it's not always a feasible agreement and may not be determined the best decision for the children. In some cases, one parent will be awarded primary custody of the children while granting the other parent visitation rights.

The parent with primary custody is referred to as the custodial parent, while the parent with visitation rights is called the non-custodial parent. The goal of the agreement is to allow each parent one on one time with the child or children. The judge will ask the parents to set a visitation schedule that works best for them and their children.

The non-custodial parent's visitation hours could be the weekends or every other weekend, or they could be based on an activity or holiday. The parents will be encouraged to be flexible with their schedules to make things as easy as possible for the parents and children. If this is not possible or advisable, there are other types of visitation agreements.

Fixed Visitation vs. Supervised Visitation

Fixed visitation is needed when the parents cannot agree on a schedule for seeing their kids. In this case, the court will make a fixed visitation plan, meaning that the parents must stick to a set schedule of what parent has the children and when without flexibility. In some severe cases, supervised visitation is awarded.

Supervised visitation is used when one of the parents is considered to be a potential threat or danger to the child or incompetent in caring for the child. While the parent still has the right to see the child in supervised visitation, a third-party member must be present during the time that the child spends with the parent that poses a risk.

Typically, the third party will be a child service worker, a therapist, or a counselor. This visitation type is put into place so that the parent can still see the child without putting the child's well-being at risk.

Child Visitation: What You Need to Know

If you are going through a divorce, you may be grappling with what kind of custody arrangement will be best for your family. When deciding on a custody arrangement, make sure you keep both parents and the children involved in mind to find the best solution for everyone. Keep this guide on child visitation in mind to prepare for your custody arrangement.

Are you looking for a child custody lawyer to defend you in court? Contact us at Citadel Law today for a free consultation.