Visitation Rights Attorneys in Irvine
Helping Orange County Parents Negotiate Parenting Time Following Divorce
Visitation rights in California, also referred to as parenting time, refer to the non-custodial parent’s right to spend time with the children. Under certain circumstances, grandparents also have visitation rights; however, these rights can become disputed during or after separation or divorce. At Michel & Rhyne, our attorneys work with parents and grandparents to help preserve their rights and arrange for visitation that is in the child’s best interests.
Turn to our Irvine visitation rights lawyers by calling (949) 666-7346 or filling out our online contact form. We are here to help.
Parent Visitation Rights
The California courts encourage parents to create a nurturing and loving environment for their children. Transitions after divorce or separation can be difficult for children, and minimizing conflict helps them adjust more smoothly. When working out custody and visitation, parents must agree on a time-sharing plan, which is a detailed schedule for the time spent with each parent. Establishing a routine and being consistent in terms of overnights, daily care, vacations, and holidays helps provide stability for children. The more detailed the plan, the better. However, flexibility is also important. For example, when children are sick and unable to go to school, traveling to the other parent’s house for visitation may not be advisable. Parents must be flexible to serve the child’s best interests.
Supervised Visitation
Supervised visitation is court-ordered parental visitation that occurs with a neutral third party present. Typically, courts order specific times and dates for supervised visitation.
According to the California courts, some reasons judges order supervised visitation include:
- An alleged history of child abuse/neglect, domestic violence, or substance abuse
- An opportunity for the visiting parent to address specific issues
- Reintroduction of a child to a parent after a long absence
- Introduction of a child and a parent who had no previously existing relationship
- Child protection against parenting concerns or mental illness
- Protection against threats of parental abduction
Grandparent Visitation Rights
Under California family law, grandparents can request reasonable visitation with their grandchildren. Grandparents often establish valuable bonds with their grandchildren, and in such cases, courts tend to grant them visitation rights. Typical situations where courts allow grandparents’ rights are when parents live separately, children do not live with their parents, or a stepparent has adopted a grandchild.
Through our office in Orange County, our Irvine visitation rights attorneys at Michel & Rhyne serve clients throughout Southern California.
Find out how we can help you protect your visitation rights. Contact us at (949) 666-7346 to schedule a consultation.