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What can I do if my visitation rights are denied in Maryland?

What can I do if my visitation rights are denied in Maryland?

Q: What is considered denying visitation?

Denying visitation occurs when one parent prevents the other from seeing their child as outlined in a custody agreement. This can include not allowing scheduled visits, refusing to communicate about the child's whereabouts, or relocating without informing the other parent. Such actions may be deemed as violating court orders.

Q: Can a mother refuse to let the father see their child?

In Maryland, a mother cannot refuse to let the father see their child if there is a court-ordered visitation arrangement in place. If she does, it may be considered a violation of the order, which could lead to legal consequences. It's important for both parents to follow the established custody and visitation agreements.

Q: What not to say in a custody hearing?

In a custody hearing, avoid making negative statements about the other parent that are not relevant to the child's welfare. Don't express anger or frustration, as this may reflect poorly on your parenting. Focus on facts and how your proposed arrangements serve the child's best interests.

Q: Can a mother keep a child from the father in Maryland?

In Maryland, a mother cannot keep a child from the father if there is a court order granting visitation rights. If she does so without a valid reason, it may lead to legal consequences, including modification of custody arrangements. Both parents are expected to comply with court orders regarding custody and visitation.

Full question:

I reside in Maryland. I have visitation rights of my two children who are in the custody of my wife. But my wife is denying my rights. She took the children to another place and I do not have access to them. In this situation, I want to make changes in the custody rights. Is there any remedy available to me in this regard?

Category: Divorce
Subcategory: Visitation
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Maryland

Answer:

In Maryland, if a parent unjustifiably denies or interferes with visitation rights, the court can take several actions. According to Md. FAMILY LAW Code Ann. § 9-105, the court may:

Reschedule the denied visitation.
Modify the custody or visitation order to include additional terms to ensure compliance.
Assess costs or attorney fees against the parent who denied visitation.

You can petition the court to address the denial of your visitation rights and seek modifications to the custody arrangement.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Can keeping a child away from the other parent backfire?

Yes, keeping a child away from the other parent can backfire legally. Courts generally view parental alienation negatively. If one parent unjustifiably denies visitation, it may lead to consequences such as modification of custody arrangements or the imposition of penalties, including attorney fees. It's essential to adhere to court-ordered visitation schedules to avoid legal repercussions.

What is the definition of an unstable parent?

An unstable parent is typically defined as someone who cannot provide a consistent and safe environment for their child. This may include issues related to mental health, substance abuse, or a lack of reliable housing or income. Courts assess stability based on the parent's ability to meet the child's emotional and physical needs.