Simple English definitions for legal terms
Read a random definition: Rule 109 statement
Parenting time is when a parent or relative gets to spend time with a child. Sometimes, a court decides how much time a parent can spend with their child. This is called visitation. If a parent has not been around for a while, they might start with a little bit of time and then get more as the child gets to know them. Sometimes, a parent can only visit with their child when someone else is there to make sure everyone is safe. This is called supervised visitation. Grandparents can also ask a court for permission to visit their grandchild, but sometimes the parent can say no.
Parenting time is a term used in family law to refer to the period of time a noncustodial parent spends with their child. It is also known as visitation.
For example, if a divorced couple has joint custody of their child, the noncustodial parent may have parenting time every other weekend and on certain holidays.
Parenting time can be restricted or supervised if there are concerns about the safety of the child. For instance, if a parent has a history of physical or sexual abuse, the court may order supervised visitation where the parent can only see the child in the presence of another person.
Another type of visitation is grandparent visitation, which is court-approved access to a grandchild. However, the Supreme Court has limited this right, stating that a parent's fundamental right to raise their child and make decisions for them should not be interfered with unless there is a threat to the child's health and safety.