The parent
who does not have physical custody of the child has the right
to frequent and reasonable visitation with the child. You and
your spouse must decide on the frequency and duration of the visits.
The more frequently the child sees his or her non-custodial parent,
the closer their relationship will become. Therefore, a more flexible
arrangement is encouraged.
Remember that even if you and your
spouse agree on custody and visitation, the schedule of visitation
is subject to review by the court. When deciding on a visitation
schedule, try to keep the following things in mind:
- When arriving
at a visitation schedule, try to put yourself in the other parent's
shoes. If your only contact with your child were during scheduled
visitations, you would want this schedule to be as liberal as
possible.
- Visitation with the other parent is necessary for
your child's future well-being and normal development.
- Visitation
is as much the child's right as it is the parents'. Therefore,
it should be a positive and enjoyable experience for the child
and the parents.
- Visitation may be the only time that you see
your ex-spouse after the divorce, so try to show your ex respect
in the child's presence despite any disagreements or resentment
between you and your ex.
- The courts will look at the following
factors when reviewing the schedule: Age and sex of the child.
The bond between the child and each parent. The desires of the
child and the parents. The willingness and capability of each
parent to provide the needs of the child. The health of the child
and the parents. The impact of moving on the child.
- The final
schedule that you arrive at should be detailed and fixed enough
to allow for some degree of long-term planning. Should you and
your spouse not get along in the future, the child should continue
to visit with the non-custodial parent. On the other hand, the
schedule should be flexible enough to allow for reasonable adjustments
as you and your spouse become used to your roles as divorced parents.
