You’ve landed on a custody arrangement with your former partner, but now need to figure out how to split visitation between the two of you as parents. The type of custody granted affects the type of visitation.
For example, if parents share joint custody, the child could live between parents equally, while a parent with sole custody has the child living with them full-time, with either full or limited visitation rights.
There are several different types of visitation agreements and this article will discuss the different types so you understand how visitation works and what your legal options are going forward.
1 – Fixed or reasonable visitation
Most parents opt for a fixed visitation plan. A fixed visitation plan outlines an appropriate schedule for both parents where the specific days and times for visitation are clearly outlined. A reasonable visitation order gives parents the option to determine how and when the non-custodial parents can visit the child.
2 – Supervised Visitation
Supervised visitation can occur at home or in public places, but usually occurs at specific, court-appointed spaces. In some cases, visitation can occur without supervision by either a trained professional or a trusted adult.
Typically, a supervised visitation order is granted in cases where there was domestic violence, if there has been a history of mental illness with the parent, drug use, alcoholism, or any other threatening behavior not safe for the child.
3 – No Visitation
In order for a court to bar a parent from all contact with their children the circumstances surrounding a “no visitation” order must be extreme; however, these cases are rare. Most times parents are granted minimal supervision during visitation, or can be granted virtual visitation, where the parent can speak to the child via webcam or on the phone. Parents can also receive no visitation if they are deemed dangerous or harmful to the child.
No matter what your situation is, whether that be seeking visitation rights or determining a visitation plan with your co-parent, seeking the help of a family law attorney can help.
At the Whitley Law Firm, we understand how complicated these situations can be and are equipped to provide the legal attention you need. If you’re interested in discussing your visitation situation with us, please connect with us today.