This article is being written to conclude and recap my series on the question of whether Arkansas children can refuse visitation with a parent. I considered it necessary to write on this topic due to the fact that parents may not be sure if such situations belong before the Court or if they are a “private matter.” The reality of such situations is that whether or not the Court will take action will always depend on the specific facts of the case. The goal of my recent articles was to provide information which will help individuals to better understand their options. It has also been my goal to provide information which will assist with the selection of a family law attorney. If you or a loved one are in need of assistance then contact my office today to speak with a Little Rock child custody lawyer.
I have addressed a number of topics over my recent articles. Issues which I have analyzed include:
- At what age an Arkansas child can refuse visitation
- When a parent coaches a child to refuse visitation
- How Courts view children who refuse visitation orders
There are multiple reasons why I chose to address these topics. First, contrary to common misperception, a child is not completely free to make their own decisions until they reach the age of majority. This means that, until a youth is eighteen years old, they must follow the Court’s orders. The Judge may, however, grant a child leeway depending on their age and maturity. Second, if a parent actively coaches a child to refuse visitation then the Court may be inclined to grant custody to the non-offending parent. This is due to the fact that such coaching is not seen as being in the best interest of the child. Finally, how the Court will view a child who is not following visitation orders will depend on the extent and nature of the child’s “refusal.”
One point I stressed in each of these articles is the importance of contacting a family law attorney immediately if you are in need of assistance. How the Court views such disputes will be highly fact sensitive and experienced counsel can assist you with making the best possible argument to the Court. I am a Little Rock child custody lawyer who understands the serious nature of such matters and my office strives to provide the highest level of service. Contact us online or by telephone today. We look forward to speaking with you. I also handle matters in Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Springdale, Jonesboro, North Little Rock, Conway, Rogers, Pine Bluff, and throughout the remainder of Arkansas.