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Child visitation laws in Frankfort, the capital city of Kentucky, are governed by state laws. Kentucky law maintains that it is beneficial for children to have frequent and stable contact with both parents, even if they’re separated or divorced. It refers to the non-custodial parent’s rights in terms of spending time with their child. The courts regulate child visitation, usually in conjunction with child custody agreements and the state always aims to make decisions that are in the best interest of the child.
Legal assistance might be helpful in numerous scenarios related to child visitation. These may include understanding and making formal visitation schedules, resolving disputes related to visitation rights, modifying existing visitation orders, and ensuring the enforcement of visitation rights. Legal help may also be required in instances of parental alienation or if issues like substance abuse, domestic violence, or other factors could jeopardize the child's safety during visitation.
Kentucky follows what's known as the 'Best Interests of the Child' standard. Among the factors courts consider in making visitation decisions are: the child's wishes (considering age and maturity), the mental and physical health of each parent, the child's adjustment to school and community, the relationship between the child and each parent, and evidence of domestic violence. In 2017, Kentucky passed a law presuming joint custody and equally shared parenting time to be in the best interest of the child.
Under Kentucky law, child visitation and child support are two separate issues. Therefore, even if a parent hasn't paid child support, they still have the right to see their child unless a court order says otherwise.
It’s important to talk to a trusted adult immediately. Lawyer, Guardian Ad Litem or a Judge may be asked to review visitation orders if you don't feel safe.
If a parent consistently fails to follow the visitation schedule, it may be necessary to seek legal help to enforce the order or possibly revise it.
Kentucky law does allow grandparents to apply for visitation rights, but these rights are not guaranteed.
While not mandatory, using a lawyer for this process can be beneficial, as they understand the legal landscape and requirements for such modifications.
If you need legal advice related to child visitation, consider contacting the Kentucky Bar Association's Family Law section, or visit the Kentucky Court of Justice website for information and resources. Also, organizations like Kentucky Legal Aid may be able to provide free or low-cost assistance.
If you need legal assistance with child visitation, consider reaching out to a family lawyer in Frankfort who can guide you through the process. Be sure to bring relevant documents, such as existing custody orders or visitation schedules, to your initial consultation. Remember, understanding your rights and responsibilities is the key to a smooth visitation process.
