Child Visitation

Many parenting plans refer to the time the non-primary custodial parent spends with the children as “visitation”. In many cases this designation is objectionable to the non-primary parent and although a “visitation” plan is implemented it is preferable to call it “child sharing”. In a divorce proceeding the parties are required to attend a mediation session regarding custody and visitation issues if the parties have not agreed on a sharing plan. The court mediators (Family Court Services) meet with both parents in an attempt to help them reach a parenting plan that is in the best interest of the children. The parties may meet with an independent, outside mediator, if they prefer. California law states that it is the goal of the state to insure that both parents have frequent and continuing relationship with both parents. Of course, there are many situations where shared parenting in not in the children’s best interest.