Hot Springs Visitation Lawyers
Helping Arkansas parents protect their parenting time
When parents split up, the children of the marriage typically reside with one parent, and the other parent is granted visitation rights. A visitation order defines the terms of when the non-custodial parent will spend time with the child so as to maintain a relationship. At Schnipper, Britton & Stobaugh in Arkansas, our Hot Springs visitation lawyers help parents negotiate and prepare enforceable agreements that are fair to both parents and that are in the best interests of their children.
Key elements of a visitation order in Arkansas
A key element of every visitation order is a parenting time schedule that breaks down when the child stays with the non-custodial parent. The order may also specify how parents communicate with each other and how the non-custodial parent can contact the child. If visitation is ordered to be supervised, the order can stipulate who must be present and where it takes place. Visitation agreements can make room for flexibility, such as if a parent is late picking up or dropping off what happens, or, if there is an illness or accident, whether the non-custodial parent has authority to make healthcare decisions.
Creating parenting schedules that work for families
A parenting time schedule describes in detail when the child will be with each parent for weekdays, weekends, holidays and vacations. For example, the non-custodial parent may have the child every other weekend, part of summer vacation and parents may alternate holidays. Schedules can be tailored to fit family needs as long as parents agree. When they don’t, the court can order a suitable schedule. We can advocate for you in negotiations or in court to help ensure a fair arrangement.
Modifying visitation orders over time
Parenting time schedules can be modified when there are significant life changes for the parents or the child. Examples include parental and child relocation, changes to employment schedules, changing child’s needs or new concerns about the child’s safety. To modify a visitation order, a parent must file a petition explaining why it is needed. We assist with modification requests and defend against changes to existing orders, depending on our client’s goals.
Resolving disputes between parents
Disputes between parents over visitation can arise over multiple issues. The non-custodial parent may claim the custodial parent is not letting them see the child on agreed-upon days. Sometimes issues can be worked out through direct discussions between parents or through mediation. In other cases, the court may need to intervene by modifying orders, granting make-up visitation or enforcement through a contempt of court motion. We work to help resolve parenting time disputes before they end up in court and can represent you in court when violations cannot be resolved otherwise.
Factors courts consider in visitation decisions
In making visitation decisions, the court applies the best-interests-of-the-child stands. Factors judges consider include:
- The emotional and physical needs of the child
- How involved the parent has been with the child
- The fitness of the parents and ability to care for the child
- How willing each parent is to encourage the child’s relationship with the other parent
- How the child’s stability will be affected
- Whether there is any history of domestic violence
- Anything else the judge deems appropriate
Our Hot Springs child custody lawyer can make the strongest case possible for your visitation rights based on the circumstances.
Contact an experienced lawyer for help preparing a visitation agreement
At the family law firm of Schnipper, Britton & Stobaugh in Hot Springs, Arkansas, we represent clients in the full range of child custody matters, including visitation. To arrange a consultation with an attorney, please call us at 501-762-0887 or contact us online.