Visitation rights are intertwined with the issue of child custody that can become a matter of contention when couples who have children separate or get a divorce. By definition, the right to visitation is something that is going to be awarded to the parent who does not have custody of the child or children. There are no hard and fast rules concerning appropriate visitation, and the ideal way to determine these rights is to amicably come to a decision that is best for all concerned without seeking legal mandates. This can be done directly between the parties involved, but often times Georgia divorce lawyers will represent clients willing to seek a mutually agreed upon decision to assist in smooth communication and handle the legalities involved in making the agreement binding.
When the parents cannot come to an agreement concerning custody and/or visitation, the case can go to court, but it can also be handled by a mediator. This is when a private party is brought in to hear all sides of the case and offer solutions that both parents may be willing to concur with. This is a way to avoid going to court and having to abide by the final decision of the judge without the ability to express why you think that determination may be unfair. There are court cases that wind up leaving both parents feeling unsatisfied, so mediation is a way to come away with a mutual agreement rather than a court decree. Georgia family lawyers have a wealth of experience guiding their clients through the process of mediation.
In Georgia there is no preference given to either parent in matters of custody and subsequent visitation rights. It is a matter of the relationship that each respective parent has with the child or children and the best overall situation for the dependents. Visitation is rarely denied to the the parent who does not have custody, and there have been cases when grandparents have been granted visitation rights as well. If you have any questions or concerns about visitation rights, simply consult with an experienced Georgia family lawyer and he or she will be able to give you all of the information that you need.
