Indianapolis Parenting Time & Visitation Attorneys

Parenting time determines when a child spends time with each parent. It is separate from legal custody, which concerns decision-making authority, and physical custody, which determines where the child primarily resides.

A parenting time schedule should provide the child with stability while encouraging a healthy relationship with both parents whenever appropriate.

Indiana courts frequently look to the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines when establishing parenting schedules. The Guidelines provide recommended schedules, holiday arrangements, transportation expectations, communication standards, and other guidance intended to promote consistency for families.

Although the Guidelines are commonly used, courts may approve different arrangements when doing so better serves the child's best interests.

Every family has different needs. Parenting schedules may take into account the child's age, school schedule, extracurricular activities, the parents' work schedules, travel distance, and other practical considerations.

Parents who are able to reach an agreement often have greater flexibility in designing a schedule that works for their family, subject to court approval.

In addition to regular parenting schedules, many parenting time orders address holidays, school breaks, birthdays, vacations, and other special occasions. Clearly defining these schedules can reduce future disagreements and provide greater predictability for both parents and children.

Parents may also agree upon schedules that differ from the standard holiday provisions when those arrangements better meet their family's needs.

In some situations, the court may require parenting time to be supervised when there are concerns affecting the child's safety or well-being. Supervision may be temporary while a parent addresses specific concerns identified by the court.

The appropriate level of supervision depends upon the circumstances of each case and the evidence presented to the court.

As children grow older, parenting schedules often need to change. Parents may request modification when circumstances have changed or when an existing schedule no longer serves the child's best interests.

Changes in school, employment, relocation, or the child's activities may all affect an existing parenting time arrangement.

A parent's move may significantly affect an existing parenting time schedule. Depending upon the distance involved, relocation may require modification of transportation arrangements, holiday schedules, and the overall allocation of parenting time.

Parents considering relocation should seek legal advice before making significant changes to an existing court order.

Court orders concerning parenting time should be followed by both parents. When parenting time is repeatedly denied or interfered with, the court may have authority to enforce its orders and address the violation.

We assist parents seeking enforcement of parenting time orders as well as parents responding to allegations that an order has been violated.

Many parenting time disputes can be resolved through negotiation or mediation rather than contested litigation. Agreements reached by the parents often provide greater flexibility while reducing conflict and expense.

When an agreement cannot be reached, we prepare each case carefully for court and advocate for parenting arrangements that serve the child's best interests.

Parenting time matters often involve related issues concerning child custody, paternity, custody and parenting time modifications, and divorce.