Understanding Visitation Rights

Useful Advice from an Established Lawyer in Shreveport

Divorce can bring out the worst in affected individuals. With fears and uncertainty surrounding your home, income, and children, it is important to hire a divorce lawyer who understands your needs and priorities, and can lead you through the process with the least amount of stress.

Visitation rights can create confusion and stress for mothers and fathers, but luckily, the State of Louisiana has programs and laws in place to help both parents remain involved in the emotional development of their children. The goal of these laws and regulations is to put the children first and place their emotional, physical and mental well-being over the concerns and goals of parents.

What are Visitation Rights?
Visitation rights are different from custody rights. Visitation is the amount of time that a parent spends with their child or children, and may be supervised or unsupervised depending on the unique circumstances and concerns of the relationship. Visitation rights may be held by a person who does not have custody of the child. Custody refers to the right to make choices about the child’s life, from school to medical treatment, and more.

In most cases, the court will try to work out a “joint custody” situation so that both mothers and fathers can continue to play an active role in the child’s life after their divorce. Co-parenting has been shown to drastically reduce the rate of high school dropouts, drug use, suicide attempts, teen pregnancy, and low self-esteem in children of divorced parents.

Unless there is suspected abuse, it is typical that both parents receive custody and/or visitation rights to maintain a sense of normalcy and strong relationships with the child. While this can be established without a court order, if you have concerns about an ex endangering or taking your child without consent, or simply want a clear guideline to reference in the future, a court order for custody or visitation is advised.

Hire a Lawyer in Shreveport, Louisiana
Work with a lawyer who understands that visitation is an important and emotional part of the divorce process. David L. White and his team of experienced legal professionals are dedicated to serving every client with empathy and respect. Whether you are seeking visitation rights or would like to change an existing arrangement, we want you to maintain your relationship with your children and watch them grow.

Consult with our lawyer in Shreveport today to get the right advice for your access and visitation rights. Give us a call at 318-747-7023.