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Visitation Challenges After A Military Divorce

On behalf of Tasha K. Schaffner of Schaffner Family Law posted in divorce on Tuesday, February 28, 2017.

Structuring visitation schedules can be challenging for military families, especially when one parent is in another state or deployed overseas. After a military divorce in Kentucky, circumstances may change without much notice. One parent may be absent for most of the time and unable to make visitation appointments. If, however, that parent is not scheduled for transfer of deployment over summer vacation or Christmas holidays, the lost parenting time might be made up then.

Although the custody agreement under these circumstances cannot specify fixed dates for visitation, it can specify details about who will be responsible for costs related to the child’s transportation, along with who will be responsible for transporting the child to train stations or airports, and who will fetch him or her. For military parents who are unable to spend time with their children, there is the option of virtual visits. Video or Skype visits can be arranged to ensure regular contact between deployed parents and their kids.

Military parents are typically afforded reasonable flexibility with relation to visitation. In some cases, visitation can be assigned to close relatives. If a judge considers such an arrangement in the best interests of a child, visitations with aunts, uncles or other close relatives can replace parental visits. Another option — if it suits the military parent’s schedule — is to assign additional visitation time when that parent is closer and available.

Military divorce, child custody, visitation and more can be complicated issues to manage in a manner that will be in the best interests of the child. Kentucky parents who have to deal with these challenges may find the support and guidance of a skilled attorney who is experienced in matters related to military divorce and family law invaluable. A seasoned divorce attorney can assist with drafting and modifying visitation plans and child custody arrangements.

Source: FindLaw, “Military Child Visitation: What You Need to Know“, Accessed on Feb. 28, 2017

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