Divorce may be a very emotional exercise particularly when children are involved. Among the most delicate and complex problems between couples, the right to decide on the time of parenting and access rights has to be determined. Custodial and visitation disputes may arise very easily but an experienced divorce attorney is very important in settling the disputes in a manner that is amicable and that is in the best interest of the child.

This paper will discuss the ways that family lawyers in Abbotsford can help resolve the problem of the parenting time and access rights, available methods to these situations and why an attorney is essential in such situations.

Lawyer working on legal documents on a table.

1. Knowing Parenting time and access rights.

Visitation time or access is also referred to as parenting time and it describes the arrangement according to which each parent will spend time with their child following the process of separation or divorce. The courts normally seek to make sure that the two parents have a substantial relationship with the children, as long as it is safe and healthy to the well-being of the child.

Nevertheless, there are usually conflicts between parents who do not agree between the time that each should be given or when one parent feels that the other is a danger to the child. This is the point where a divorce attorney whose area of specialization is child custody access intervenes to ensure that the rights of both parents are safeguarded and the best interest of a child is achieved.

2. Negotiation and Mediation: Step one.

A majority of divorce lawyers begin with persuading mediation or negotiation prior to going to court. These solutions enable parents to share their issues in a formal and civilized setting and through their counsel.

In this step, your attorney:

  • Assists you with finding your parenting time objectives and priorities.
  • Discusses any schedules of proposed custody to make sure that there is fairness.
  • Represents you to agree to a workable agreement.
  • Makes sure that you do not have your parental rights neglected in the discussions.

A friendly solution achieved after a negotiation process saves time and money as well as the emotional burden on the children.

3. When the Intervention of the Court is needed.

In case the mediation process fails or the conflict is characterized by some serious matters, e.g., the allegations of neglect, abuse, or parental unfitness, a divorce attorney is willing to bring the case to the family court.

Your lawyer has a role in court, and this includes:

  • Showing proof of being capable as a parent.
  • Proving how your parenting plan is in the best interests of the child.
  • Doubting any falsehoods or prejudiced judgments of the opposing party.
  • To make sure that the court takes into account all the factors that are relevant, including age of the child, school timetable and emotional needs of the child.

It is aimed at achieving a custody and access arrangement that facilitates stability, safety, and consistency in life of the child.

4. The Re-negotiation of Parenting Agreements to Change Situations.

After divorce, life does not remain the same. When there is a change in working, the move or when there is a need by a child, the parenting plan might need to be reconsidered. The divorce attorneys help the parents petition the changes that will not be legally binding and that which will be in the best interest of the child.

Your lawyer can help you:

  • Make a request to change the custody or visitation orders.
  • Introduce new facts or situations in the court.
  • Negotiate new terms that are beneficial to the two parents.

Conclusion

Parenting time and access rights are often exhausting issues but having the appropriate divorce attorney, you will easily sail through the turbulent times with sanity and certainty. An experienced lawyer defends your rights as a parent, makes the well-being of the child a priority, and works to achieve a solution that will not bring conflict to the maximum.

Regardless of negotiation, mediation, or court representation, the difference between having a trusted divorce attorney and a court defeat can be immense in the way of getting a fair and lasting result in your family.