Parenting Time/Visitation Attorneys Phoenix

At Rachel Frazier Johnson Law, we know that your children’s happiness and stability are your top priorities. The process of creating a parenting plan can feel daunting, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our dedicated team offers compassionate support and legal advocacy, ensuring your parental rights are protected while helping you secure the brightest future for your family.

What Is Parenting Time?

Parenting time in Arizona refers to the schedule and arrangements for when each parent spends time with their children. This aspect of child custody focuses on maintaining meaningful parent-child relationships while considering the child’s well-being and daily needs. Parenting time is distinct from legal decision-making authority, which addresses a parent’s right to make important decisions about the child’s upbringing.

Parenting time arrangements often differ based on the specific needs and circumstances of each family. For instance, some parents may share equal time (a 50/50 schedule), while others may create a plan that best accommodates geographic distances, work schedules, or other factors. The goal is always to craft a schedule that supports healthy development and fosters a loving relationship with both parents.

How Is Parenting Time Determined?

Arizona courts prioritize the child’s best interests when determining parenting time. Judges evaluate several factors, including:

• The wishes of both parents regarding custody  
• The physical and emotional needs of the child  
• The child’s relationship with each parent and siblings  
• The child’s adjustment to home, school, and community  
• Each parent’s willingness to facilitate a positive relationship between the child and the other parent  
• History of domestic violence or substance abuse, if applicable  

Parents are encouraged to collaborate and propose a parenting plan together, as agreements reached amicably are often more effective and less stressful than court-imposed solutions. However, if an agreement cannot be reached, the court will make a determination based on the factors above.

Common Concerns About Parenting Time

Parenting time decisions can be overwhelming, leaving you feeling anxious or uncertain about what the future holds. Common concerns include:

• “What if the schedule disrupts my child’s routine?” Parenting time plans aim to preserve as much stability as possible for the child. Courts strive to minimize disruption to routines like school and extracurricular activities.  
• “What if the other parent and I don’t agree?” Disagreements can be challenging, but see them as an opportunity to find a balanced solution. Legal advocacy or mediation can help resolve disputes effectively and collaboratively.
• “Will I lose parenting time if I make a mistake?” Losing significant time with your child is a common fear, but courts generally favor arrangements that allow both parents to remain actively involved unless there is a safety concern.  
• “Can I modify the plan if something changes?” Life changes, work schedules shift, families relocate, or children’s needs evolve. Parenting time orders can be modified when circumstances substantially change and when the modification aligns with the child’s best interests.

Why You Need an Attorney for Parenting Time Matters

Advocating for your rights and your child’s well-being during parenting time proceedings can be complex and emotionally draining. That’s where an experienced attorney at Rachel Frazier Johnson Law comes in. We provide tailored guidance and robust representation to ensure that your voice is heard and your child’s interests remain protected. Here’s how we help:

• Crafting Thoughtful Parenting Plans that align with your family’s unique needs.  
• Handling Disputes with professionalism and diplomacy, whether through mediation or court advocacy.  
• Modifying Orders to reflect changing circumstances while keeping your child’s best interests in focus.  
• Reducing Stress by tackling the legal complexities on your behalf, so you can focus on your child.  

Find a Fair and Balanced Solution

At Rachel Frazier Johnson Law, we know that parenting time is about more than schedules; it’s about maintaining meaningful connections with your child and building a solid foundation for their future. If you’re ready to move forward with confidence, reach out today to schedule your consultation. Together, we can create a plan that respects your rights, supports your child’s happiness, and gives your family the clarity and comfort you deserve.