Child Custody

questions & answers

Question: Can the full custodial parent keep the non custodial parent away from their child?

Answer: The basic answer here is "No."  But like everything in family law, it depends on the circumstances.  If a court finds that the non-custodial parent is putting the child at risk, it may order that no visitation be allowed, but that is unusual and strictly based on specific circumstances.  Arizona Revised Statutes, Section 25-401(6) defines sole legal decision-making (custody) as meaning" one parent has the legal right and responsibility to make major decisions for a child."  Arizona law requires that the parent who is not the custodial parent be allowed reasonable parenting time (visitation).  Lewis v. Renkow, (Arizona App. 2011).  Arizona Revised Statutes, Section 25-414 sets forth penalties that can be assessed against a custodial parent who refuses to allow visitation.