Visitation rights, also known as parenting time, refers to the scheduled time minor children spend with a parent they do not primarily reside with. The court prioritizes the best interests of the children in all custody and visitation orders.
Judges presume that, in most cases, it is beneficial for a child to maintain frequent, regular contact with both parents, as long as both homes are safe and appropriate. Our attorneys can help you with matters concerning visitation rights in Frederick.
Standard visitation typically includes alternate weekends, split holidays, some weekdays, and extended summertime. Courts usually require supervised visitation only when safety concerns exist, such as abuse, neglect, or substance abuse issues. A neutral third party, such as a relative or professional supervisor, monitors visits to ensure the children’s safety.
Virtual visitation may be necessary in some cases, such as when the parents live far apart. If someone violates Frederick court-ordered visitation rights, such as by denying visitation, the other party can seek court enforcement, and the judge may choose to hold the violator in contempt.
When deciding on custody and visitation, the family Court considers various factors. Pursuant to Maryland Family Law § 9-201, they take the following into account:
If reasonable grounds show neglect or abuse by you or the other parent, the Court will likely investigate whether the conduct may continue and may deny or limit visitation. Our knowledgeable lawyers can answer your specific questions regarding parenting access rights during the initial consultation.
Physical custody determines where your children live and divides their time between the parents. The Court may grant it solely or jointly. Sole physical custody means the minor primarily lives with one parent, and the other typically has parenting time. With shared physical custody, the child spends a substantial amount of time, as close to 50 percent as possible, with each parent.
Legal custody is a separate arrangement that the Court orders and involves decision-making authority. That includes education, religion, health, and more. As with physical custody, it can be joint or sole but does not directly indicate or control visitation schedules.
The family Court encourages couples with shared children to work together and create a parenting plan, which is a written agreement outlining schedules, holidays, and transportation. They should also make arrangements for settling future potential disagreements.
If they cannot agree, a judge decides the schedule based on the children’s best interests. Our Frederick lawyers have experience handling cases involving parenting time rights and can help you through each step of the process.
Children are the most important part of families, and caring for them is a substantial responsibility. That is particularly true when parents are no longer together.
If you are dealing with the family Court and concerns involving custody or visitation, our compassionate family lawyers can guide you through each step of the process. Call today and schedule a consultation to learn more about visitation rights in Frederick.
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