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Reasonable and fixed visitation rights, explained

| Feb 12, 2016 | Child Custody and Visitation

For parents who are not cohabitating, some form of child custody or visitation rights are the answer for a child to spend time with both parents. Depending on the specific circumstances, some parents find that one parent has custody while the other has visitation rights. Visitation schedules are not necessarily rigid, and can be tailored to meet the factors of each family situation.

Some parents who have been granted visitation rights have what is known as “reasonable visitation.” Reasonable visitation is a term that describes a visitation schedule that is fluid and is flexible depending on communication between the parents. This is a good option for parents who are communicating well enough to determine the best times to schedule visitation and to work around their respective schedules. But, this is not a great option for parents who are not communicating well, or for a situation where one parent is unreliable or unreasonable.

Fixed visitation would be a great option for parents whose relationship is strained. Fixed visitation is an arrangement where the judge orders times where the non-custodial parent is to have parental visitation. This visitation schedule is much more rigid, with set times and even set places determined weeks or months ahead of time. It does give parents insight into what to expect of the other parent because the visitation schedule is mandated by the court.

Whatever the visitation schedule, the goal is for the parents to spend meaningful time with their child. Visitation time is meant to foster a positive relationship between parent and child that will benefit the child in the short and long-term. For people in the Clarksville area who have been granted or are seeking visitation rights, it is important to remember that the best interests of the child is always the most important factor.

Source: FindLaw, “Parental Visitation Rights FAQ,” Accessed Feb. 8, 2016

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