What Does Child Visitation Mean?
A lot of legal terminology comes into play when it comes to making custody, visitation, & parenting decisions in your divorce. It’s no wonder that a common question our divorce attorneys are asked is: “What does child visitation mean?”
Read on to learn more.
Child Custody Versus Visitation
The terms “custody” and “visitation” or sometimes used interchangeably, but they actually have different meanings. Custody is a broader term and can refer to either legal or physical custody, while visitation refers to time actually spent with the child.
Child Visitation
Visitation typically refers to the parenting time given to the noncustodial parent when the other parent has sole custody of the child. This often refers to the visitation schedule, which sets the specific dates, times, and locations of when the noncustodial parent sees the child.
Supervised Visitation
Supervised visitation can also be ordered. This is usually only done if there’s a concern that one parent may post a threat to the child. A judge can order supervised visitation if he or she believes it’s necessary for the child’s safety and well-being.
Making Changes to Visitation
Sometimes the visitation schedule doesn’t work for you and your family and there are Post Judgment issues.
A Motion to Modify can be used to adjust the terms of a parenting plan or custody agreement as long as the changes are in the child’s best interests.
Some examples of reasons a parent might file a Motion to Modify custody or parenting include:
- Seeking a change in custody from sole custody to joint custody or vice versa
- Seeking additional parenting time
- Hoping to relocate
- Changes to a parent’s work schedule
- Adjustments to a child’s school or activity schedule
Next Steps
For more information about Connecticut divorce and family law, check out our Divorce Information and Facts. If you have questions or want to learn more about how our team of divorce attorneys can help you with your divorce or post judgment issue, please contact us here.
