Monmouth County Visitation Lawyer
Facing disputes about child custody and visitation after divorce can be challenging. The possibility of losing time with your children is heartbreaking and the concept of court hearings may feel overwhelming. Fortunately, a seasoned Monmouth County visitation lawyer is available to guide you through the court or negotiation process.
At Moskowitz Law Group, our practice is wholly dedicated to providing legal guidance and representation in family law cases. Schedule a meeting to discuss your concerns and how we can help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Who Can Request Visitation Rights?
Child visitation, often called parenting time in New Jersey, is usually outlined in a fixed schedule designating when the child will spend time with or reside with each parent and/or other person having custodial rights. These agreements can stipulate visits between a child and their non-custodial parent on weekends, holidays, or any other agreed-upon times. The law prohibits parents from withholding child visitation against a court’s order.
Parents who are divorcing may consider visitation as an alternative to joint physical custody. Joint physical custody is an arrangement where the child spends equal time with each parent. When parents live separately, even if they were never married, one may initiate legal action to request visitation rights.
Parents are also not the only people who can have visitation with a child. Grandparents, siblings, and stepparents may also have the right to create these agreements or obtain a court order for visitation. A family law attorney could review the rules and regulations in Monmouth County to ensure parents and other parties understand their legal right to visitation.
How Courts Determine Visitation Agreements
A family law attorney helps their client create a visitation plan that meets legal requirements and addresses everyone’s needs. If disputes continue, a judge will have the final say on visitation rights in court.
The family court considers several factors when determining a visitation schedule, but always prioritizes the child’s best interest. These factors include, but are not limited to:
- The parents’ ability to agree and cooperate on matters involving the child
- The child’s relationships with parents and siblings
- Any history of abuse or domestic violence
- The child’s educational needs
- Stability and proximity of the parents’ homes
- The child’s preferences when of sufficient age and maturity to intelligently state a preference
When a parent has a history of behavior that has a substantial adverse effect on a child, such as domestic abuse or addiction, the court may choose to order supervised visitation. In these cases, the court will appoint a friend, relative, or another trusted adult to oversee the visitation sessions. Supervised visitation orders are facilitated through a family court or private program and is usually temporary until the supervised parent can prove they have been sufficiently rehabilitated.
A knowledgeable visitation attorney can provide invaluable assistance throughout court proceedings in Monmouth County, including representing a parent or grandparent’s interests. They have a deep understanding of the relevant statutes and can offer sound legal advice and guidance tailored to a parent’s specific situation.
Schedule a Consultation with an Experienced Monmouth County Visitation Attorney
Navigating divorce, child custody, and visitation agreements can be challenging for parents and children alike. Without a firm understanding of family law, defending your rights as a parent may be challenging.
A determined Monmouth County visitation lawyer can guide you through court and negotiation processes and advocate for an ideal outcome on your behalf. To discuss your case and how our legal team can help, call Moskowitz Law Group and schedule a free consultation.
