Tulsa Visitation Lawyer

Disputes involving child custody and visitation can cause significant emotional distress for families. Struggles over child visitation rights can occur for both unmarried parents and married couples facing divorce.

Although parents may reach an agreement over child custody and visitation schedules, disputes over these issues are often heard in a courtroom. An experienced family law attorney could help you with your case. If you are facing challenges obtaining or enforcing your rights to see your child, please contact a Tulsa visitation lawyer.

How Courts Determine Visitation Rights

Every parent has certain legal rights regarding their child, including rights to custody and visitation. Some parents may need to take additional steps to enforce their custody or visitation rights. For example, unmarried fathers may need to establish paternity before they can enforce their parental rights.

Before a visitation schedule is set, unmarried parents must resolve how they will share custody. If the parents cannot reach agreement, a family court will decide on custody and visitation frequency.

Courts will prioritize the best interests of the child when making these decisions. Some factors courts may consider include:

  • The child’s wishes
  • The child’s relationship with the parents, siblings, or other family members
  • The distance between the parents’ residences
  • The child’s proximity to school
  • The parents’ stability and physical health
  • Prior history of crimes, such as sex crimes, domestic abuse, or child abuse
  • Alcohol or drug use
  • Factors that can impact the child’s safety or well-being

A lawyer could help parents in Tulsa understand factors that may impact decisions about their rights to see their child.

Examples of Visitation Schedules

Courts have the discretion to issue an order that implements a set visitation schedule when parents cannot reach an agreement. The court ordered schedule will depend on the situation and the needs of the child.

Some examples of visitation schedules include:

  • Parents rotate care weekly
  • The child rotates between homes, spending four nights with one parent and three nights with the other parent for alternating weeks
  • One parent has the child on weekdays and the other on weekends
  • Parents alternate weekend visits
  • A parent has daytime visitation
  • A parent has supervised visitation

Parenting plans may also need to address other issues regarding visitation rights, such as which parent the child will spend certain holidays with.

A Tulsa attorney could help parents negotiate a schedule for contact with their child or fight for the time they are entitled to in court.

Modifying or Enforcing Visitation Rights

Child custody and visitation disputes often continue even after a court issues a ruling, as life circumstances and family dynamics frequently change. A parent may need to modify their existing visitation schedule for various reasons, such as relocating for a new job or experiencing significant changes in their personal situation. Either parent has the right to request a modification if they believe it is necessary.

Additionally, if the custodial parent is uncooperative or refuses to accommodate reasonable changes, a Tulsa attorney can assist in filing a motion in family court to seek a modification. Just as when custody and visitation arrangements are initially determined, the court’s primary concern will be whether the proposed changes serve the best interests of the child.

If one parent fails to comply with a court-ordered visitation schedule—such as denying the other parent their rightful time with the child—legal action may be necessary. An experienced attorney can help enforce the court’s order and protect a parent’s right to maintain a meaningful relationship with their child.

Speak With a Tulsa Attorney About Your Right To Visitation With Your Child

Being unable to spend quality time with your child can be emotionally overwhelming. If you are facing a divorce or a legal dispute over your visitation rights, a skilled Tulsa visitation lawyer can provide the guidance and advocacy you need.

At LaCourse Law, our experienced attorneys are dedicated to protecting your parental rights and ensuring you have the opportunity to maintain a meaningful relationship with your child. We will help you understand your legal options and, if necessary, fight aggressively on your behalf in court.

Contact us today to discuss your case and get the support and legal representation you deserve.