Separating and divorcing parents must deal with important decisions regarding the care and well being of their children. This includes having a clear understanding of the legal definitions “child custody “and “child access.” Even when one parent has sole custody, the other parent usually has a right to contact with the child. The legal term for this is “child access.” The couple can sort out the details of “child access” informally or contact an experienced child access lawyer for guidance.
Child access is the right of the parent and the child to spend time together. It also gives a parent with access, the right to know certain things that would be otherwise unavailable. This has to do with factors regarding the child’s well being, including important medical or educational information.
Not every parent has right to access. Access is encouraged in healthy child parent relationships to support the best interests of the child. “Supervised access” may be allowed in situations where there are concerns about the child’s well being. In severe cases, such as proven abuse or neglect, child access can be denied.
The most common types of child access are:
- Reasonable access
- Fixed access
- Supervised access
A “reasonable child access” agreement is ideal for parents who agree on most childcare issues and are able to communicate calmly with each other. With “reasonable access,” there is a communicative flow of “access” between the child and the parents. The parents can design a flexible arrangement on their own, or call upon the assistance of a collaborative divorce lawyer.
Parents who wish to make specific, long term arrangements regarding visits may choose a “fixed access” arrangement. The details can outline specific dates and times and locations for visits. This method allows the parents and child to plan ahead for weekends, holidays, special occasions and other visits. Parents can create this plan on their own or with the help of a Vaughan child access lawyer.
Access arrangements have far reaching implications
For the future well being of the child and the family unit. As the needs of the child and the family change, original access arrangements may need to change also. The guiding principle is always what is best for the child. If you have questions in this area, do not hesitate to contact a knowledgeable and experienced Hilbing Child Access Lawyers to help sort out the details in your particular situation and weigh the pros and cons of potential choices.