Establishing a Child Visitation Schedule

Visitation determines the amount of time and the manner in which each parent will spend time with the child. There are various factors that come into play when allotting visitation rights, including:

Age of the Child

This is a primary consideration when planning the duration and frequency of visitation. Typically, an infant or toddler will spend the majority of time with the custodial parent whereas a teenager may benefit from dividing time more equally between parents.

Strength of the Parental Bond

If there is not a strong relationship between one parent and the child, the judge may advocate a phased-in approach. With this arrangement, visitation parameters will evolve over time towards a more typical visitation schedule.

Child’s Commitments & Activities

Many children are involved in sports or other activities that have a set schedule. At times, this may overlap with one parent’s visitation. Typically, the scheduled activity will take precedence within reason.

As with all other matters regarding your children, their best interest will always be the driving force for any decisions made. If there is concern that one parent cannot provide for the child or may present a threat to their safety, visitation may not be granted or may require monitoring.

For interstate or international visitation, the court may weigh the home state of the child, the ability of each parent to pay for travel, and each parent’s work schedule when determining visitation. Mr. Michel has successfully helped families establish custom visitation schedules that benefit everyone involved.

Mr. Michel believes that helping families establish a convenient visitation schedule is important to preserving the quality of life for all involved. 

Benefits of Having a Visitation Order

Having a visitation schedule that is formalized as a court order is the only way in which it can be legally enforced. An order: 

• Ensures the child is able to spend time with both parents
• Provides structure
• Reduces conflicting scheduling issues
• Holds each parent accountable

While some parents may have an amicable relationship and come to an agreement on their own regarding visitation, it may be beneficial for both parties to have the order approved by a judge in case one parent violates the terms. Typically, the amount of time spent with each parent will also dictate the amount of child support paid.

Typically, a judge will recommend mediation prior to meeting in court if parents cannot come to an agreement on a visitation schedule.

If an agreement is successfully formed in mediation, the judge will review and either approve or make modifications as needed.

Once the visitation order has been approved, any modifications must go through the same process.