Visitation
Considering both the needs of the parents and the needs of the children
Visitation Orders in California
Guidance from Our Los Angeles Family Law Attorneys
Creating a fair and workable visitation order is essential to maintaining strong parent-child relationships after a divorce or separation. A successful plan should meet the needs of both parents and, most importantly, serve the best interests of the child. Finding that balance, however, can be one of the most challenging aspects of co-parenting.
At Holstrom, Block & Parke, A Professional Law Corporation, our Los Angeles visitation attorneys help parents reach practical, family-centered solutions that minimize conflict and maximize stability for everyone involved. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, we work to ensure that your rights as a parent are respected and your relationship with your child remains strong.
Call our Los Angeles office today to schedule a consultation and speak with an experienced family law attorney about your visitation case.
Fair Treatment for the Noncustodial Parent
If you do not have primary custody of your child, you still retain the fundamental right to visitation unless the court determines that such visits would harm the child’s well-being. Under California Family Code §§3100–3105,
“The court shall grant reasonable visitation rights to a parent unless it is shown that the visitation would be detrimental to the best interest of the child.”
This means that even noncustodial parents have the legal right to spend meaningful time with their children. Visitation arrangements can vary greatly depending on family circumstances, schedules, and the child’s age. Courts generally prefer consistent and predictable parenting time that fosters stability and emotional security.
What Visitation Orders Typically Include
Every visitation plan should clearly outline when, where, and how parenting time will take place. Key components may include:
- Specific days and times for visits
- Duration of each visit
- Exchange locations and travel arrangements
- Holiday and vacation schedules
- Special conditions, such as supervised visitation or restrictions for safety reasons
Visitation orders should be tailored to fit the family’s schedule, work obligations, school calendars, and geographic distance between parents.
Importantly, visitation rights cannot be withheld due to missed child support payments. Even if one parent falls behind on financial obligations, visitation continues to be a separate and protected legal right.
Modifying Visitation Orders
Life circumstances can change after a visitation order is finalized. Parents may relocate, children grow older, or work schedules may shift. When these changes make the existing order unworkable, a parent may petition the court for a modification. A modification will typically be approved only if there has been a significant change in circumstances and the new arrangement serves the child’s best interests. Our Los Angeles family law attorneys can guide you through this process, helping you gather evidence, present your case, and request adjustments that make sense for your family.
Protect and Uphold Your Visitation Rights
At Holstrom, Block & Parke, we believe every parent deserves the opportunity to maintain a meaningful relationship with their child. Our Los Angeles child custody and visitation lawyers encourage the use of mediation to resolve disputes whenever possible—helping parents save time, money, and emotional energy.
When cooperation isn’t possible, our attorneys are prepared to represent your interests in court and fight to protect your rights.
Contact our Los Angeles office today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you establish, enforce, or modify your visitation order.
