A parent in Georgia who is denied custody rights to a son or daughter may be granted visitation rights to that child. In many cases, an individual is denied custody rights because it is better for the child to live primarily with the other parent. However, the courts generally believe that a minor benefits when both parents are in the child’s life. The judge who oversaw the case will typically release a written ruling, and individuals who are denied custody are encouraged to read it.
The ruling will often cite specific reasons why it was not in a child’s best interest for an individual to receive custody. A parent may be able to make changes that alleviate a judge’s concerns, which might allow that individual to regain custody rights in the future.
Parents who receive visitation rights are encouraged to exercise those rights on a regular basis. Failing to do so may result in no longer being able to spend time with a son or daughter. Parents could also be denied visitation rights because they have substance abuse issues or because they have abused their children. Generally speaking, individuals who have had their parental rights terminated will no longer be able to see their kids. As with custody rights, a person who has his or her visitation rights terminated may have them restored in the future.
Individuals who want sole or joint child custody rights will need to show that having those rights is in their child’s best interest. In some cases, a child may be able to express his or her preferences as it relates to how a parenting plan is structured. An attorney may be able to help a person show a judge that he or she is committed to being a quality parent.
