In Riverside, Temecula and the surrounding areas, it is unfortunately common for married couples to decide to divorce. The details will vary based on the circumstances and every case is different. When children are involved, it adds several layers of complexity that must be addressed. With child custody and visitation, the key is the child’s best interests. In general, the courts want the child to have a relationship with both parents if it is feasible. However, it is important to understand the different categories of visitation orders that can be part of the decision.
Visitation orders and how they are chosen
There are generally four categories of visitation. It can be based on a set schedule; reasonable visitation; supervised visitation; or no visitation. Scheduled visitation lists when the child will be with each parent. The goal is to prevent disputes and the constant need to discuss the pickup, drop off and other aspects of the situation. The courts can give a schedule or, if the parents are on reasonable terms, they can do it themselves. For example, the child might be with the custodial parent during the week and spend the weekends with the noncustodial parent. Holidays, vacations and special occasions can be addressed. Reasonable visitation is also an alternative. Some parents have jobs with fluctuating hours. The flexibility with reasonable visitation might be useful as they can work it out by themselves without a set plan. Obviously, this is preferable for people with a good relationship.
Supervised visitation is based on safety concerns in which the noncustodial parent has certain issues that might make it dangerous for the other types of visitation. The custodial parent, another person or a professional can be the supervisor. This is often due to allegations of abuse or the child simply not having a prior relationship with the parent. Finally, no visitation is relatively self-explanatory. If the child will be at risk emotionally or physically, this could be ordered.
Both parents should consider having help with custody and visitation
With child custody and visitation, parents who are amicable or can place their differences on the backburner for the good of the child might benefit from scheduled visitation or reasonable visitation. In other instances, there could be disagreements, fears or accusations that make these choices harder to navigate. Regardless, the custodial parent and the noncustodial parent may need guidance and assistance from the start. Consulting with those who are experienced in family law might help.