CHILD VISITATION

The term visitation has long been used to refer to the time a noncustodial parent spends in regularly scheduled appointments with his or her children. The term is a bit of a misnomer because a parent is not a visitor but rather an integral member of the child’s family. Child visitation is an important right that is necessary for maintaining a meaningful, loving relationship between parent and child. It’s a consideration second only to the health and welfare of the child.

At The Law Offices of Steven E. Springer, our family attorneys advocate vigorously on behalf of parents who want and deserve time with their children and on behalf of parents who must oppose visitation by former spouses whose influence could be damaging. With more than 30 years of combined experience, we’re ready to manage your visitation dispute to arrive at the best solution for your circumstances.

WHAT DETERMINES CHILD VISITATION RIGHTS?

Visitation is the term used for the time a non-custodial parent spends with his/her child. A parent may not be chosen as the most appropriate custodial parent for a number of reasons:

• The parent’s work schedule prevents him or her from performing the duties of a custodial parent.

• The parent may live in a small apartment that’s not suitable for overnight stays by the child.

• The parent lives so far away that travel to his or her home would be too disruptive for the child.

On the other hand, a parent may not be trusted with the child for a variety of reasons. These reasons may be sufficient to limit the meetings to court-supervised visitation or to preclude contact altogether. These reasons include:

• Alcohol and drug abuse

• Criminality

• Domestic violence

• Immaturity and lack of judgment

• History of ineffective supervision

• Conflict in the non-custodial parent’s home

Along with advice and advocacy on child custody arrangements, our firm provides complete representation on all issues related to child visitation.

HOW TO HANDLE INTERFERENCE WITH VISITATION

One of the most common post-divorce complaints is that the custodial parent is deliberately interfering with the noncustodial parent’s visitation schedule. This can be part of a purposeful attempt to alienate the child’s affection. If this is happening to you, you have recourse in the court.

California family law holds that regularly scheduled visits are in the best interest of the child. The court enforces your visits and ensures your former spouse if clear evidence of intent is shown. You should not withhold child support as that puts you on the wrong side of the law and may influence the court against you. The Law Offices of Steven E. Springer can direct your child visitation dispute toward a successful conclusion.