This is the first post in a group of articles which will address the question of the age at which a child can stop visitation with a parent in Melbourne, Florida. I feel it is important to address this topic as it is one that often raises confusion and misunderstanding between parents. If you are involved in a child custody dispute then it is suggested that you speak with an attorney as soon as possible. I have previously discussed whether children can refuse to visit a parent. This article will expand upon that discussion by explaining whether children can stop visitation completely. If you need assistance then contact my office today to speak with a lawyer.
I will address a number of topics over my next several articles. Issues which I will be looking at include the following:
- The age at which Florida children can completely cease visitation
- How to deal with a child who is refusing visitation
- How the Courts respond to parental coaching or alienation
- Changing custody due to coaching or alienation
I have chosen to address these particular topics for multiple reasons. First, like in other states, there is no age at which a minor can automatically gain the right to refuse visitation with a parent. This only happens, as an operation of law, when a child turns eighteen and reaches the age of majority. There are situations, however, where Courts will give increased flexibility to a child in their teenage years. Second, dealing with a child who is refusing visitation may or may not require Court intervention. Third, if the Court believes that a parent is coaching the child to avoid their counterpart then the Judge may change child custody as a result. Finally, understanding the process of changing custody in such a situation is vital.
An important point that will be made in each of these articles is that one should contact an attorney as soon as possible if they are involved in any type of family law dispute. Engaging in disagreements with one’s ex, or taking matters into one’s own hands, can often hurt a case more than it helps it. By having experienced counsel, you help to ensure that your matter is handled correctly.
I am a Melbourne child custody lawyer who practices solely in the area of family law. My office prides itself on providing the highest level of service and we believe that everyone is entitled to effective representation. Contact us online or by telephone today to schedule an initial consultation. We look forward to speaking with you.
We also service clients in the Brevard County cities of Titusville, Cocoa, Palm Bay, Grant, Valkaria, and Rockledge, as well as in the Indian River County areas of Fellsmere, Sebastian, Vero Beach, Indian River Shores, and Orchid.