Child Visitation Schedules
When parents separate or divorce, deciding how to share time with the children can be difficult. In California, parents usually create a visitation schedule, also called a parenting plan. A clear schedule helps both parents stay involved in their child’s life.
California courts prefer parents to agree on their own visitation schedules. If parents can’t agree, the court will set the schedule. The goal is always to protect the child’s best interests.
Different Types of Child Visitation in California
California has several types of visitation for child custody cases. The best one depends on each family’s situation.
- Scheduled visitation is very common. It sets clear dates and times for visits. For example, the child may spend every other weekend and some holidays with the non-custodial parent. A clear schedule helps children feel safe and stable.
- Reasonable visitation is flexible. Parents don’t have set dates and times. They agree on visits as they go. This only works if parents communicate well. Otherwise, it can lead to disagreements and confusion.
- Supervised visitation happens if the court worries about a child’s safety. Another adult or a court-appointed supervisor stays during visits. Courts use this if a parent has problems with violence, drugs, or abuse.
- No visitation is very rare. It only happens if the court thinks visits would seriously harm the child.
A family law attorney can help ensure your interests are represented throughout the process.
How California Courts Decide Visitation Schedules
California courts always focus on what’s best for the child.
Judges look at many things, such as:
- The child’s age and needs
- Each parent’s relationship with the child
- Each parent’s ability to care for the child
- If either parent has a history of abuse or violence
- The child’s wishes, if they are old enough to decide
- How stable each parent’s home is
Judges use these factors to create a safe and fair visitation schedule. The goal is always to keep both parents involved if it is safe to do so.
Common Visitation Schedules in California
In California, many child custody visitation schedules look similar.
The most common ones include:
- Weekend visits: The child sees the non-custodial parent every other weekend. Usually, these visits go from Friday evening to Sunday evening.
- Midweek visits: The child spends one evening each week with the non-custodial parent, like a Wednesday night dinner.
- Holiday visits: Parents often share holidays. For example, one year, the child spends Thanksgiving with one parent, and the next year, with the other parent.
- Summer vacations: During summer, the child might spend several weeks with the non-custodial parent.
Courts prefer schedules that give children frequent time with both parents. It helps kids stay connected and feel loved.
Changing Your Visitation Schedule
Life changes, and sometimes visitation schedules need updates. California courts allow changes if there’s a good reason.
Common reasons for changing a visitation schedule include:
- A parent moves far away
- Changes in a parent’s job schedule
- Concerns about the child’s safety
- Changes in the child’s activities or school schedule
If parents agree, they can submit the new schedule to the court. If not, one parent must ask the court to make changes. It’s important to get the court’s approval, or the new schedule might not be legally enforceable.
Contact a California Child Custody Lawyer for Legal Help
Creating a visitation schedule can feel overwhelming. It’s important to have a clear plan that protects your child’s best interests and your parental rights. An experienced California child custody lawyer can help.
Your lawyer will explain your rights, help create a fair visitation schedule, and represent you in court if needed. They can also help if you need to modify your existing schedule.
If you need help with child visitation in California, contact a skilled child custody lawyer today.
Contact a California Divorce Lawyer Today
For more information, contact our experienced California divorce lawyers at Berenji & Associates Divorce Lawyers by calling (310) 271-6290 to schedule a consultation.
We serve all through Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Los Angeles County, and its surrounding areas. Visit any of our offices at:
Berenji & Associates Divorce Lawyers Los Angeles Office
550 S. Hill Street STE 1467
Los Angeles, CA 90013
(213) 277-2586
Berenji & Associates Divorce Lawyers Beverly Hills Office
9465 Wilshire Blvd #333
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
(213) 277-2586