Parenting Time
At G. Acosta Law, we understand that maintaining a meaningful relationship with your children is one of the most important aspects of separation or divorce. Parenting time, formerly known as access, refers to the time a parent spends with their child after separation or divorce. Whether you are negotiating parenting time or seeking to modify an existing arrangement, our experienced family law attorneys in Aurora, Barrie, Richmond Hill and Vaughan are dedicated to helping you achieve a solution that benefits both you and your children. We strive to ensure that the best interests of the child are prioritized while protecting your parental rights.
About Parenting Time & Access Lawyer Services
Parenting time is a crucial component of family law cases involving children. It defines the schedule and circumstances under which a parent can spend time with their child. At G. Acosta Law, we offer comprehensive legal services to assist parents with establishing, modifying, or enforcing parenting time arrangements. Our team ensures that all agreements comply with Ontario law and meet the child’s best interests.
Establishing Parenting Time Schedules
We assist parents in creating detailed and practical schedules that outline when and how they will spend time with their children. These schedules take into account the needs of the child and aim to foster a positive and consistent relationship between parent and child. Each families’ parenting schedule may look different to conform to that particular family’s circumstances.
Modifying Parenting Time Arrangements
If your situation has changed and you need to modify an existing parenting time agreement, we can help you navigate the legal process. Whether it’s a new job, relocation, or other significant life changes, we ensure that your updated parenting time arrangements reflect your current circumstances.
Enforcing Parenting Time Orders
If the other parent is not complying with a parenting time order, we provide legal guidance on how to enforce your rights. We help ensure that the court-ordered parenting time is respected, and if necessary, take steps to address violations of the order.
Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution
We offer mediation services to help parents resolve parenting time disputes without resorting to litigation. Mediation provides a cooperative environment to settle disagreements and create a parenting time schedule that works for both parents and the child.
Court Representation for Parenting Time Disputes
When negotiations fail, our lawyers are prepared to represent you in court to ensure a fair and just parenting time arrangement. We advocate for your parental rights while focusing on the best interests of the child.
Frequently Asked Questions About Parenting Time Disputes
What is Parenting Time?
Parenting time refers to the time a parent spends with their child after separation or divorce. It is typically determined based on the child’s best interests, and it includes both regular visits and special occasions like holidays, Mother’s day, Father’s day, long weekends, and birthdays. Your partner has the right to visit or be visited by the children unless a court orders otherwise, or that you can decide how much parenting time they get.
How is Parenting Time Decided?
In deciding parenting time, Family Law Judges will consider basic principles such as the children’s best interest, which is the priority; children should have as much contact as possible with both parents so long as this is in the children’s best interest; and the past behaviour of a parent cannot be taken into consideration by the court unless that behaviour reflects on the person’s ability to act as a parent. Courts will also consider factors such as the child’s age, emotional needs, and the ability of each parent to provide a stable environment.
Can Parenting Time be Denied in Ontario?
Parenting time is generally not denied unless there are concerns for the child’s safety or well-being. In such cases, supervised visits may be arranged to ensure the child’s protection.
What Happens If One Parent Does Not Follow the Parenting Time Schedule?
In order for a parenting schedule to be enforceable it must be in a separation agreement filed with the court or in a court order. If a parent does not follow the agreed-upon or court-ordered parenting time schedule, the other parent can seek recourse through the court to enforce the court ordered parenting time. This can include requesting changes to the schedule or imposing consequences on the non-compliant parent such as a penalty, or a fine for each time the non-compliant parent does not follow the parenting order.
Can Parenting Time Be Changed After An Agreement Has Been Made?
Yes, parenting time arrangements can be amended if there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a new job, relocation, changes in the child’s needs or a parent’s ability to parent. Amendments must be approved by the court or agreed upon by both parents.
Contact A Parenting Time Lawyer Today
If you need assistance with parenting time or access issues, contact G. Acosta Law today. Our experienced family law attorneys in Aurora. Barrie, Richmond Hill and Vaughan are ready to guide you through the process and help you secure a fair parenting time arrangement. Fill out the contact form below to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can assist you.
Phone
Aurora
16 Industrial Parkway South,
Suite 419
Aurora Ontario
L4G 0R4
Barrie
92 Caplan Ave,
Suite 640
Barrie, Ontario
L4N 9J2