Child custody schedules offer requirements and guidelines for parents who have a shared or joint custody arrangement. Family courts generally determine custody schedules, while a judge approves and issues them. Usually, they’re created following a separation or divorce, or through specific requests.
What’s in a Child Custody Schedule?
Generally speaking, the schedule includes the following details, according to child custody lawyers in Draper, UT.
- All the names of parents or guardians, and children involved in the schedule;
- Contact details of parties involved;
- Specific details of each parent’s rights and designated custody schedule, such as weekdays with the mother and weekdays with the father or one whole week with the father and one whole week with the father; and
- Other specific instructions, including whether visitation or custody has to be supervised, among others.
A custody schedule serves as a calendar that parents must follow and helps solidify and finalize the court-ordered child custody arrangement. It likewise helps in keeping things fair for all parties involved and ensures the best interests of children. Do note though that custody schedules could be modified whenever applicable. You just need to submit a formal request modification to the court and follow the court’s instructions. However, modification would only be considered by the court due to the following factors:
- Changes in the needs of the child;
- If one parent has plans of relocating;
- Changes in either parent or guardian’s availability;
- Amendments to child custody requirements, guidelines, or laws; and
- Changes in the economic or financial circumstances of either parent or guardian.
What Happens if One Parent Violates the Custody Schedule?
Because custody schedules are essentially part of the orders issued by the court, violating it could lead to legal consequences such as hefty fines, contempt, reduction, or even loss of child custody rights. Depending on the specific circumstances of the violation, it could also lead to criminal penalties.
That said, if you have queries or concerns about your child custody schedule, consult a local child custody lawyer for legal advice.
