Parenting TimeIndiana state law refers to visitation as parenting time, in recognition of the fact that the periods of visitation are the noncustodial parent's opportunity to fulfill his or her duties as a parent. Children do best when they have both parents in their lives, even when the mother and father do not live in the same household. Whenever it is in the best interests of the children to do so, the family law court will award reasonable rights of visitation to a parent who has not received child custody in a divorce. Whether you are interested in establishing visitation rights, protecting your right to parenting time during a divorce, or need to modify the existing plan of visitation, Jonathan understands how important it is for you to play a meaningful role in your child's life, and wants to assist you with obtaining court orders that protect your relationship with your child. |
Parenting Time for Unmarried Parents |
As a general rule, Indiana courts permit parents to agree upon parenting time schedules to fit their specific family's needs. However, Indiana adheres to the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines ("IPTG"), which are presumptively applicable unless the parties agree to a different arrangement. Also, it is within the Court's discretion to order a derivation from the Guidelines.
Prior to a parenting time order being entered, paternity must be established. Click here for more information on paternity. |
Grandparent Visitation |
Visitation is also available under certain circumstances to grandparents in Indiana. Provided that one of the parents has passed away or that the parents are divorced, the grandparents on either side of the family may be able to petition the court for reasonable rights of visitation. The court will review the situation to determine what is in the best interests of the children, as well as what efforts the grandparents have made in the past to have a relationship with the grandchildren.
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