Going through a divorce is never easy. There are so many things that must be considered so that both parties can move forward and start a new life. One of the most important issues to address is child visitation schedules. In Nevada, there are specific guidelines that must be followed to ensure a smooth transition for both parents and children. In this article, we will discuss the steps you need to take to address visitation schedules in Nevada divorce cases.
Understanding the Laws and Guidelines
Before addressing visitation schedules in Nevada, it is important to understand the laws and guidelines that govern child custody and visitation. Nevada law states that both parents are entitled to joint physical custody of the children unless the court determines otherwise. This means that both parents have a right to spend time with their children, even if one parent has primary physical custody.
Nevada also follows the best interests of the child standard when determining custody and visitation schedules. The court will consider a variety of factors, including the child’s age, physical and emotional needs, the stability of each parent’s home and its suitability for the child, history of domestic violence, and the child’s relationship with each parent.
Consider Child’s Needs
When it comes to visitation schedules, it is essential to consider the child’s needs. This involves a variety of factors, such as the child’s age, school schedule, extracurricular activities, and the distance between both parents’ homes. It is essential to create a schedule that ensures the child’s routine is not disrupted and that they have ample time with each parent.
Types of Visitation Schedules
There are several types of visitation schedules to choose from when creating a parenting plan. Here are some of the most common types:
Standard Visitation Schedule
The standard visitation schedule in Nevada involves one parent having the children during the week while the other parent has them on the weekends. This schedule usually involves alternating weekends and holidays.
50/50 Visitation Schedule
A 50/50 visitation schedule involves an equal amount of time with both parents. This means that the child spends half of their time with one parent and the other half with the other parent. This schedule is best when both parents live close to each other and have stable homes.
Modified Visitation Schedule
A modified visitation schedule involves customizing the schedule to fit the child’s needs and the parents’ schedules. This could involve alternating weeks or having the children every other weekend and one night during the week.
Split Week Schedule
A split week schedule involves having the child spend the first half of the week with one parent and the second half with the other parent. This schedule is best for parents who live close to each other and have flexible work schedules.
Mediation and Court-Ordered Visitation
If the parents cannot agree on a visitation schedule, they can go to mediation to work out a plan. If mediation does not work, the court will step in and make a visitation schedule. It is essential to remember that the court will prioritize the best interests of the child, so it is essential to have a plan that works for everyone involved.
Final Thoughts
Working out a visitation schedule can be challenging, but it is essential to put the child’s needs first. Both parents should work together to create a schedule that ensures the child has ample time with each parent and that their routine is not disrupted. If mediation and court intervention are needed, it is essential to remember that the court will prioritize the best interests of the child. By working together, you can make the process of creating a visitation schedule much smoother.