Certain factors may result in a judge limiting a parent’s placement. This can happen either during or after the divorce process. While there are some obvious `red flags’ that can affect placement, there may be a few in the list below that are surprising.
Factors that may affect parental placement time
- Unsafe or inappropriate accommodations for children
- Leaving a very young child alone at home while the parent works, runs errands or socializes
- A child’s school, doctor or another person in authority reports that a child seems to appear unbathed, unkempt and unprepared for school
- There is domestic violence in the household, even if the parent of the child did not initiate the violence
- The parent develops a problem with drugs or alcohol
- One parent interferes in the other parent’s placement time and does not support the other parent’s relationship with the child
- A parent gets accused of a violent or reckless criminal action that makes the court concerned about the child’s safety
It’s important to remember that family court judges have a lot of room for subjective decisions when handling custody and placement issues.
When you’re facing a custody battle, get help
If you’re facing a custody or placement battle, don’t try to handle the situation on your own. Every situation is unique, just as every family is unique. Talk to an experienced advocate about your options.