Three out of every five children still live with both of their biological parents. A growing minority, though, do not. These children often live with one biological parent. That doesn’t mean the other parent has to give up their relationship with their child, though!
Child visitation allows both parents to fulfill their parental obligations. It also allows both parents to enjoy their parental rights.
If you’re going through a divorce, then you know things must change. You’ll see your child less, but you still have a right (and obligation) to be there for them. Read on to learn everything you need to know about your rights, duties, and expectations.
Child Visitation: The Basics
So, what exactly does child visitation mean? As a parent, aren’t you able to ‘visit’ your child whenever you’d like?
Once you and your spouse get divorced, that’s no longer the case. One of you will need to assume primary custody of your youngster. That means your child will live with that parent most of the time.
If you don’t have primary custody, you’re considered the non-custodial parent. That means you’ll get awarded child visitation rights.
Most parents have the right to visit their children. That’s because courtrooms assume children are best served when they have those relationships.
Types of Visitation: Know Your Options
So, what types of visitation could courts award to you? Depending on the situation, you may hear the terms:
- Reasonable visitation
- Specific scheduled visitation
- Supervised
- Unsupervised
Reasonable visitation means you and the other parent will come up with a schedule. The non-custodial parent gets a lot of leeway, but this is most appropriate for parents who get along. If you can’t communicate well, then this plan won’t work.
Instead, you’ll want a specific scheduled visitation order. This plan will outline exactly when the non-custodial parent can visit with the child.
Unsupervised visitation means the non-custodial parent can spend time alone with their child.
Supervised visitation is appropriate when the child can’t be alone with the parent. This is often the case when drugs or alcohol problems are present. It’s also useful when abuse could occur.
Pandemic Considerations
Is visitation still appropriate during the pandemic? That’s a tough question to answer! Virtual visitation is one solution, but it’s not ideal.
It’s advised you speak with a lawyer if you have Covid visitation questions. Check out thetexasdivorcelawyer.com for more details from a lawyer you can trust.
Maintaining Relationships With Your Children After a Divorce
Child visitation is as complicated or as simple as you and your spouse make it. If the two of you agree to do what’s best for your youngster, then there shouldn’t be any issues.
Despite that, you may need to involve the courts to ensure everyone’s rights get upheld.
If you’re going through a divorce, it’s advised that you hire an attorney. You, your former spouse, and your child all deserve to have your voices heard.
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