After a divorce, it’s imperative for both parents to retain an active role in the lives of their children. This means the non-custodial parent should be able to visit their little ones as agreed upon by the court. If visitation is withheld, many parents wonder whether legal recourse is warranted. Luckily, Don Roberts Law Offices of Hilliard, OH, can help. Here, these child visitation attorneys offer clarification on the consequences of withholding visitation rights.

Is It Illegal to Withhold Visitation?

Court-Ordered Visitation

Child visitation agreements are court-ordered. In this case, honoring such agreements is crucial, unless there is reason to fear for the child’s safety. Violations of court orders can have strict legal reprisals, including contempt of court, which can result in jail time. While withholding visitation is one concern, the non-custodial parent might also run into trouble if they fail to return their children at the agreed-upon time.

Unpaid Child Support & Visitation

Some parents believe it’s acceptable to withhold visitation rights when child support payments are not received. While non-payment of child support is a serious issue, it does not give a parent the right to withhold time spent with the non-custodial parent. In fact, these are two separate issues. If support remains unpaid, the custodial parent should seek the service of a child support attorney.

How Issues Should Be Handled

In most cases, child visitation attorneys urge parents to address concerns or requests for schedule changes with the courts directly. A proper legal process must be followed so both parents remain compliant with all pertinent rules and regulations. From there, the courts will decide whether a modification is called for, and will make a ruling based on the facts presented by either side.

In Hilliard and the surrounding areas, Don Roberts Law Offices has earned a reputation for dependable services, regardless of the legal issue at hand. For a greater understanding of your visitation rights, visit this firm online. You can also call (614) 777-4500 to schedule a consultation with a child visitation attorney today.

Don Roberts Law Offices is based in Columbus, Ohio, but serves clients throughout the State of Ohio. Our office in Hilliard, Ohio is convenient to Dublin, New Jefferson, Bexley, Westerville, New Albany, Hilliard, Grove City, Reynoldsburg, Gahanna, and other Franklin County municipalities. Our office is located in central Ohio and is just a short drive to/from anywhere in Ohio.  Attorney Advertising. This website is designed for general information only and should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship.  See our profile at Avvo.com or Martindale.com.