why would a lawyer contact a non-costodian parent about

by Miss Idell Durgan PhD 7 min read

In many cases, having both parents remain involved in a child’s daily life is often in the best interest of the child. However, if a custodial parent believes that the noncustodial parent is using multiple forms of communication to harass or abuse the child, a family law attorney should be contacted.

Full Answer

Why do we represent the non custodial parent in Family Court?

That is why, when we represent the non custodial parent, we demand the custodial parent put a stop to his or her actions and, if the custodial parent refuses, we seek court intervention. The family court considers interference and uncooperative parenting to be very important to custody decisions.

How do you deal with a non custodial parent?

Encouraging the children to not see the non custodial parent or otherwise alienating the children, in an attempt to reduce the non custodial parent's ongoing and future visitation; Using children as a messenger and bringing them into the divorce or custody proceedings, to make the non custodial parent's time with the children less enjoyable;

What are my rights as a non-custodial parent?

As a non-custodial parent, you still have the following rights: Spending holidays with your child; this could be for all the holiday or a portion of it, depending on what the court decides The right to report any neglect, abuse, or anything else that may have a negative impact on your child

Can a non-custodial parent without joint legal custody of a child?

A non-custodial parent without joint legal custody of the child may not be entitled to participate as significantly in the child’s upbringing.

Can a child refuse visitation with non-custodial parent in Texas?

In Texas, there is no age under 18 that allows for a child to refuse visitation. Visitation is the right of the parent, and it cannot be taken away by the custodial parent or child. The only option would be for the custodial parent to request a modification of orders.

How often should a non-custodial parent call Texas?

Unless there is a specific need, parents should not initiate a call or text to their children more than one time a day while they are in the other parent's custody.

What happens if non-custodial parent refuses to return child in Texas?

If the non-custodial parent refuses to cooperate with the terms of your custody order, you can seek a legal remedy for custody enforcement or a modification to your order.

What rights does a non-custodial parent have in California?

The non-custodial parent does have the right to challenge the current custody order in the case of a relocation and the court holds broad discretion when determining what is in the child's best interest and whether it would be in the best interest of the child to remain with the non-custodial parent rather than moving ...

What is reasonable contact for a father?

It is usually in the best interests of the child to have contact with both parents. The law provides that father's should have “reasonable access” to their children. However, there is no set guidelines for reasonable access for father.

What rights do non custodial parents have in Texas?

A possessory conservator, or noncustodial parent, has the legal right to spend time with the child and know the whereabouts of the child. These rights are commonly called “access and visita- tion” or “possession.” Many people think only fathers can be noncustodial par- ents, but that is not the case.

At what age can a child refuse to see a parent?

Age 18Legally, Your Child Can Refuse Visitation at Age 18 When your child reaches 18, he or she is an adult. Adults can decide who they spend time with. You will not be able to force your child to continue to see you. A family law court will no longer be able to enforce any possession or visitation clauses over an adult.

Can my ex dictate who is around my child?

In general, you do not have the power to dictate which adults are around your child when they are with the other parent. When you have your child, you can decide who is present. You can decide whether to introduce them to a romantic partner or not.

At what age can a child choose which parent to live with in Texas?

12In the state of Texas, a child's decision cannot be the sole factor in determining which parent the child lives with. When the child reaches the age of 12, upon motion, the court can consider the child's wishes when it comes to who they will live with.

What can be used against you in a custody battle?

The Reigning King of What Can Be Used Against You in a Custody Battle: Verbal or Physical Altercations. We wanted to start with the most simple pitfall to avoid: When tempers get high, it's quite alluring to get into a verbal sparring match with your ex-spouse.

How do you win a custody battle against a narcissist?

How Do You Win a Custody Case Against a Narcissist? Follow These 9 Steps#1 Remember That You Are Dealing With a Narcissist. ... #2 Take Note of Everything That Happens. ... #3 Stop or Limit Communication. ... #4 Contact Law Enforcement. ... #6 Ensure Your Physical Safety. ... #8 Continue Being Dependable. ... #9 Secure the Right Attorney. ... Stay Calm.More items...•

What do judges look for in child custody cases?

Mental and Physical Well-Being of Parents Parents' mental well-being is of great concern to a judge in a child custody case. Psychological disorders, overwhelming stress, drug or alcohol abuse, and mental health crises can prevent a parent from acting in their child's best interests.

What is non-custodial parent?

What are Non-Custodial Parent Rights? A non-custodial parent, as opposed to a custodial parent, is a parent who does not have primary custody of their child. For example, one parent may have custody of the child for several weeks, while the non-custodial parent may only have custody of the child for one or two weekends per month.

How are non-custodial parents' visitation rights determined?

The non-custodial parents’ visitation rights are determined by a court’s analysis of several different factors, including: The schedules of both the child and each parent. Prior visitation arrangements have the ability to impact a noncustodial parent’s visitation rights for subsequent children.

What is the right to spend holidays with a child?

The right to spend holidays with the child (this could be for the entire holiday or only parts of it depending on what both the parties and court decides is best for the child); The right to report any abuse, neglect, or other factors exhibited by the custodial parent that have a negative impact on the child; and.

What is legal custody?

This is known as having legal custody over the child, meaning the parent is permitted to make choices for the child’s well-being, such as their education or religious upbringing. In general, there are two forms of custody: legal custody (mentioned directly above), and physical custody, which refers to having say over the physical location ...

Can a non-custodial parent see their child?

Additionally, the non-custodial parent may only have certain visitation privileges, such as only being allowed to see their child during the day or only during specific weekends (e.g., every other weekend). Oftentimes, a non- custodial parent might have set limitations on their legal rights to make major decisions on behalf of the child.

Differences Between Custodial And Non-custodial Parents

A custodial parent is the parent that has the child live with them full-time. However, that does not mean that the other parent cannot see the child at all.

Understand The Meaning Of Full Custody

The parent with full custody is the primary custodial parent. In practice, full custody means that the child spends most of their time living with the parent who also makes legal decisions for the child. In this case, the other parent is the non-custodial parent.

When Both Parents Are Custodial Parents

Joint custody, or when both parents are custodial parents, is awarded in many situations. That does not always mean that a child spends equal amounts of time with each parent. Rather, joint custody may simply give both parents a legal say in how their child is raised.

Children And Custody

Children are the center of a parent’s world. Seeing them as much as possible, as well as having a say in their lives, is of the utmost importance to all mothers and fathers. When relationships dissolve and a parent is not awarded custody, it can be difficult for the parent to feel like they have enough access to their children.

What are non-custodial parents responsible for?

For one thing, a non-custodial parent is still responsible for paying for things the child needs via child support.

What is a non-custodial parent?

Non-Custodial Parent. A non- custodial parent is one who does not have custody of his or her children. While a non-custodial parent may enjoy visitation with the children, and may even be actively involved in their lives, the children do not actually live with the non-custodial parent. This means that a non-custodial parent does not have primary ...

How long does a custody agreement last?

Typically, a custody agreement remains in effect until the child reaches adulthood , which is 18 years of age in most states.

What does it mean when one parent has sole custody?

When one parent has sole physical custody, this means that the child is to live with that parent, and be under that parent’s supervision in the eyes of the law. The non-custodial parent then visits with the child in accordance with the terms of a previously established visitation agreement.

What is child support?

Child Support. The amount of child support a non-custodial parent is directed to pay toward a child’s education and lifestyle is typically determined at the state level. However, there are more general guidelines that can be applied across the board.

What is physical custody?

The term “physical custody” refers to the parent with whom the child physically lives. When parents share joint physical custody, this means that each parent spends regular time with the child in his or her own home. When parents share physical custody, the courts will usually require parents to design a parenting plan to make sure that there is consistency in the child’s life, and that the plan is in the best interests of the child. The plan may also provide for which parent’s house will be considered the child’s official residence for the purpose of school and medical records.

What are situations that would be considered not in a child's best interests?

Situations that would be considered to be not in a child’s best interests are those that involve the denial of one parent’s access to the child, or situations wherein visitation with the child would be made difficult.

What is the difference between a non-custodial parent and a non-custodial parent

A non-custodial parent who despite having no physical custody of the child does have joint legal custody has more rights than a non-custodial parent without legal custody. A non-custodial parent with joint legal custody has the right to share in important decisions and factors in the upbringing of the child along with the custodial parent, ...

What is non-custodial parent rights?

Non-custodial parent rights depend on whether the parent has joint legal custody with the custodial parent. There are two types of custody : physical custody and legal custody. Physical custody refers to where a child actually lives most of the time, while legal custody refers to a parent’s right to make decisions about a child’s upbringing ...

What is the right of a non-custodial parent?

If a non-custodial parent or one without joint physical custody is also without joint legal custody, then often the only absolute right of the non-custodial parent is to enjoy visitation with the child as ordered by the court. However, it is also true that regardless of what type of custody the parents have, each parent’s rights with regard ...

What happens if a parent refuses to give information about a child?

If a custodial parent refuses to provide information about the child to the other parent, where the information is important , a non-custodial parent without joint legal custody may bring the matter to the court’s attention with a request to order the custodial parent to provide reasonable information.

Why do courts change custody orders?

Courts recognize that situations that lead to healthy relationships with both parents are in the best interests of children, and sometimes change child custody orders so that the parent most willing to allow the child a relationship with the other parent has more time with the child.

Why do people have no legal custody?

Since most modern courts award joint legal custody to parents, a parent without joint legal custody is likely to have been deprived of legal custody for a reason, such as a history of domestic violence or drug abuse or perhaps notable inability or unwillingness to parent.

Can a non-custodial parent have legal custody?

However, a non-custodial parent without legal custody who was not deprived of legal custody due to a history of abuse or a similar reason may find it easier to participate in the child’s upbringing to some extend.

What is the purpose of a child as a messenger?

Using children as a messenger and bringing them into the divorce or custody proceedings, to make the non custodial parent's time with the children less enjoyable ; Disparaging the non custodial parent to drive a wedge between he or she and the children; Making false allegations of child abuse or neglect against the non custodial parent;

What is the meaning of "refusing to abide by pick up and drop off times"?

Refusing to abide by pick up and drop off times and delaying the exchange of the children to the non custodial parent; Encouraging the children to not see the non custodial parent or otherwise alienating the children, in an attempt to reduce the non custodial parent's ongoing and future visitation; Using children as a messenger ...

What is the law in California?

California law is simple - Both parents have a right to enjoy frequent and continuing contact with their children. California's laws ensure that contact occurs unless the children's best interest require otherwise. The most common examples of this are situations of child abuse or endangerment, domestic violence and substance abuse.

Can a non-custodial parent interfere with visitation?

While tension and even frustration is common in many custody proceeds, if you are a non custodial parent and the other parent is interfering with your visitation, don't assume you have to tolerate it. You don't. The right thing to do is to seek the advice of a knowledgeable family law lawyer with custody experience.

Is interference important in custody?

The family court considers interference and uncooperative parenting to be very important to custody decisions. Family law judges generally do not tolerate such interference if it is serious and continuing. While tension and even frustration is common in many custody proceeds, if you are a non custodial parent and the other parent is interfering ...

Why is it important to have a visitation agreement?

It’s important to create a parenting plan and visitation schedule that is age-appropriate for your child. This plan can always be modified as your child grows up and matures. You should keep the visitation schedule flexible ...

What to include in a parenting agreement?

Your parenting agreement may include such things as: What weekends you are going to have visitation of your child. Overnight visits.

What to do if you can't adhere to visitation schedule?

If there’s a reason why you can’t adhere to the visitation schedule, you should communicate any changes with the other parent of your child. Put Your Child First. You should always put the best interests of your child before your own. Make sure your child has a safe place to stay, food, and other necessities.

What is a non-custodial parent?

A Non-Custodial Parent, Defined. A non-custodial parent does not have primary custody of their child/children. If you are a non-custodial parent, your ex-spouse may care for your child for several weeks, while you may only be allowed to see them one or two weekends a month. While every family’s schedule differs, ...

What does a child custody lawyer do?

In addition, your child custody lawyer has the skills and knowledge to negotiate on your behalf to make sure your rights are protected. Trust them to assist you in preparing your case for court, should that become necessary.

What happens if you have joint custody of your child?

If you have joint legal custody of your child, you have the right to have a voice in any important decisions regarding your child such as schooling, medical treatment, religious upbringing, etc. The court will expect you to take part in raising your child regardless of where your child spends most of their time.

What happens if you threaten your child?

Violence and/or child endangerment: If you have abused or threatened your child with physical harm and/or emotional harm. Drug and/or alcohol abuse: If you or your child’s other parent is abusing drugs and/or alcohol, you may be denied visitation.

What is the right of a child to have contact with other children?

Contact between the child and others. Children have the right to have contact with any other person if it is in their best interests. This can usually be established by asking the child/parents/school/significant others about the relationship.

What are the decisions that are made in a parenting plan?

These will be tabled in the parenting plan, and usually include major decisions about schooling and tertiary education, mental health and medical care, contact with the child, and any decisions that are likely to significantly change the child’s living conditions or have an adverse effect on his/her well-being.

What is a parenting plan?

The parenting plan usually contains a directive to inform the child’s school that the parents are co-holders of parental rights and therefore jointly involved in all educational issues concerning the child.

What is the bottom line of a parenting plan?

Jobs, schools and a variety of other factors must still be taken into account. The bottom line is to find a plan that works for the whole family. ​.

Why is communication important in parenting?

Communication between parents is a vital aspect that should be covered in a parenting plan, because communication will assist parents in . meeting the child’s needs; preventing the child from experiencing an overwhelming sense of worry and fear of abandonment; and.

What is joint decision making?

Joint decision making. On certain issues, parents will be required to take joint decisions.

What is the parenting plan for alternate residence?

The plan will also detail how the parent of alternate residence will exercise contact on the child’s birthday. The parenting plan will also usually contain a clause stating that , bearing the child’s age and maturity, he/she will be entitled to telephonic or Skype access to the mother when with the father and to the father when with ...

WHAT ARE THE RIGHTS OF A NON CUSTODIAL PARENT?

1. Visitation as ordered by the court. 2. If no court order in place, visitation should be agreed upon by the parents. If any problems following such an informal agreement, the court order should be made. 3. Be fully engaged in the children’s life – access to school’s records, medical records, extra-curricula activities. 4.

How can custodial parents interfere with the rights of a non custodial parent?

Planning activities with children on the visitation date and time of the non-custodial parent without the consent of the non-custodial parent.

What is indirect interference?

Indirect Interference. Interference with a noncustodial parent’s time in communicating with the child can be done indirectly. An example is when a custodial parent interferes with the rights of the noncustodial parent. The refusal of the custodial parent to permit the child to answer calls from a noncustodial parent is unacceptable interference.

What is interference with a child's time in communicating with the child?

Interference with a noncustodial parent’s time in communicating with the child can be done indirectly. An example is when a custodial parent interferes with the rights of the noncustodial parent. The refusal of the custodial parent to permit the child to answer calls from a noncustodial parent is unacceptable interference. For extreme interference, a court may issue an order for the arrest and detention of the parent who is interfering. If one of the parents is in violation of court-ordered visitation rights or custodial rights, they would be in contempt of court that results in imprisonment by the court. The state of Texas includes in its criminal law the parental rights interference. Any acts that interfere with custody, whether done directly or indirectly, may lead to felony charges.

Differences Between Custodial and Non-Custodial Parents

Understand The Meaning of Full Custody

  • The parent with full custody is the primary custodial parent. In practice, full custody means that the child spends most of their time living with the parent who also makes legal decisions for the child. In this case, the other parent is the non-custodial parent. Full custody is usually awarded when one parent cannot take care of the child. This ma...
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When Both Parents Are Custodial Parents

  • Joint custody, or when both parents are custodial parents, is awarded in many situations. That does not always mean that a child spends equal amounts of time with each parent. Rather, joint custody may simply give both parents a legal say in how their child is raised. The child, often for practical reasons, spends the majority of their time at one parent’s house.
See more on coastalvirginialaw.com

Children and Custody

  • Children are the center of a parent’s world. Seeing them as much as possible, as well as having a say in their lives, is of the utmost importance to all mothers and fathers. When relationships dissolve and a parent is not awarded custody, it can be difficult for the parent to feel like they have enough access to their children. The same can be said for parents looking to regain custody as …
See more on coastalvirginialaw.com