What Are Reasonable Visitation Rights In Mississippi?

Visitation Rights in Mississippi

When it comes to deciding visitation and custody, the Mississippi courts tend to favor both parents being involved in a child’s life. The desire for both parents to be allowed visitation with a child is in an effort for there to be circumstances for significant contact to allow a close relationship between a parent and child. 

However much the court may favor involvement by both parents, there must be a balance. The best interest of the child and the rights of the non-custodial parent are the two main factors that the court considers when deciding visitation schedules. When it comes to the best interest of the child, the main concern of the court is that visitation should not put the child in any danger.

You may be wondering what reasonable visitation is for a non-custodial parent. This will depend on the specifics of every situation. If the court finds that there is no danger for the child in the non-custodial parent having visitation, the court may create a visitation schedule or agreement as part of custody or divorce proceedings. 

There are many types of visitation rights, but standard visitation is the most common. Standard visitation typically consists of visitation two weekends a month, four or five weeks in the summer, and alternating holidays. However, the specifics of visitation depend on the specifics of each custody dispute. Situations like unusual work schedules or extreme geographical distances between homes may be reasons for an alternative visitation schedule.

What if the Non-Custodial Parent Does Not Exercise Visitation?

If you are a custodial parent struggling with a non-custodial co-parent who refuses to exercise their visitation rights, you may feel trapped, but you do have options. As the parent with custody, you can petition the court to modify the custody agreement. If you choose to do this, your custody agreement could be changed to allow less visitation to the non-custodial parent.

You may also be able to modify visitation rights after custody has been finalized if there is a significant change in the non-custodial parent’s behavior, living situation, or other factors that are putting your child in a dangerous situation. 

In both instances, working with an attorney to help you navigate changing visitation rights can be helpful. Jason Campbell has helped parents understand their options to finding the best custodial and visitation situation when situations have changed.

What Should a Custody Agreement Include?

You may hear that if you and your spouse are on good terms, a formal visitation schedule is unnecessary. While this is an option, it is not recommended. Because relationships can change at any time, and you can never be sure how you may feel in the future, having a set visitation schedule is the best way to protect yourself and your child in the future. 

A structured custody agreement should include the visitation dates and times of transfer. If necessary, you could also include other details, such as who pays for travel expenses for the visitations. 

Should the custodial relationship ever become strained, having a structured visitation schedule will ensure there wouldn’t be any room for questions or disagreement.

Contact a Child Custody Attorney

Custody decisions can be very tense and stressful. We often find the dispute becomes much more about the relationship between the parents and less about finding the best solution for the child. If you are involved in a custody dispute, you should contact an attorney as soon as possible. It’s extremely important that you’re represented to make sure your child’s best interests are made a priority. 

Jason Campbell has extensive experience with family law and makes it his mission to fight for the safety and well-being of children in matters of child custody. 

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Schedule a free consultation today to learn more about how Campbell Law may be able to help you. We typically respond to any contact by phone or email within 24 hours.