People often use the terms child custody and visitation interchangeably. These are two closely related issues, but they are different. If you are going through a divorce or involved in a paternity case, you should understand the distinction.
Custody Versus Visitation
Child custody refers to both legal custody, which dictates parental decision-making, and physical custody, which dictates which parent the child lives with. Child visitation, also known as parenting time, comes into play when one parent has sole physical custody of the child. The child lives with the custodial parent, and the noncustodial parent is typically granted visitation rights so that he or she can spend a significant amount of time with the child and remain involved in the child's upbringing.
The Importance of a Detailed Parenting Plan
Out of all the concepts involved with children in divorce and paternity cases, the one that is likely most important is the parenting plan. This is also referred to as a child custody and visitation agreement, or a child custody and visitation schedule.
At Greenwood Associates, our lawyers take great care to create a parenting plan that protects your relationship with your child. The plan outlines the specific days and times you will spend with your child, including how birthdays and holidays are handled, who provides transportation for exchanges, and how the parents will communicate and resolve disagreements. We make certain the parenting plan corresponds with your schedule and takes into account any special needs your child may have. With 30 years of experience on our side, we know the importance of careful planning and documentation to minimize disputes and misunderstandings.
Contact our lawyers at Greenwood Associates in Provo to discuss your visitation and parenting plan issues.