What is the difference between custody and visitation?

Custody refers to the legal rights and responsibilities a parent holds over decision making and the child’s living arrangement. Visitation, also called parenting time, refers to the actual schedule of time each parent spends with the child.

Can a parent refuse to allow visitation?

No, not without going back to court. If one parent is not complying with a court ordered visitation schedule, the other parent can file a complaint for contempt to enforce it.

What happens if I miss scheduled visitation?

Occasional, reasonable circumstances are typically not a major issue, but a pattern of missed visitation can affect future custody decisions. If something comes up, communicate and document it.

Can visitation be supervised?

Yes, when a court has concerns about a child’s safety, it can order supervised visitation with a third party present. This can later be modified to unsupervised time if circumstances improve.

How do I change an existing visitation schedule?

You can file a complaint for modification if circumstances have changed significantly, such as a parent’s work schedule, relocation, or concerns about the child’s wellbeing during visits.

Visitation

Worcester Child Visitation Lawyers
Serving Worcester, Middlesex and Hampden Counties

When parents live apart, a clear visitation schedule protects everyone involved, especially the child. Rudolf, Griffis, Ruggieri & Murray helps parents put together parenting time arrangements that are realistic, enforceable, and centered on the child’s wellbeing.

When visitation becomes contentious, whether one parent is withholding time or there are concerns about the child’s safety, we step in to advocate for a workable, protective solution.

What A Visitation Schedule Covers

Regular parenting time, including weekdays, weekends, and overnights.
Holidays, school vacations, and summer schedules.
Transportation and exchange logistics.
Virtual visitation, such as video calls, when in person time is not possible.
Supervised visitation, when there are safety concerns.

When Visitation Becomes Supervised

Courts may order supervised visitation when there are concerns about a child’s safety, such as a history of substance abuse, domestic violence, or neglect. Supervised visits typically take place with a third party present, either a family member the court approves of or a professional supervision service.

We work with clients on both sides of this issue, whether you are seeking protective conditions or working to demonstrate you are ready for unsupervised time with your child.

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