Whether Massachusetts residents are custodial parents or non-custodial parents of children, the decision to move, following a divorce, is not something that should ever be taken lightly. Regardless of the reasoning, the courts have various protections and procedures to ensure that such decisions are necessary or done with proper intentions. In addition, courts work to ensure that future visitation rights are not negatively affected by the move.
How do courts determine the 'best interests of a child'?
Throughout the court system in United States, including the courts in Massachusetts, one of the primary objectives is to protect any children involved in a divorce. The courts understand that a divorce has the potential to affect children, and it should come as no surprise to understand how or why.
Know what to expect with child custody visitation rights
As we have stressed in the past, the divorce is never easy and seldom painless for all parties involved. Although on occasions both spouses are on the same pages with many of the decisions that need to be made, this is rare. More often than not, there are differences of opinions, beliefs and wishes. This leads to disagreements. Add to it the fact that there is often animosity, resentment and hurt feelings, and things can get complicated and occasionally messy.
Understanding Grandparents' rights in Massachusetts
While parents are granted custodial rights to their children at birth, there are certain situations that may arise that require someone else to care for those children. These cases are rare though. But, that should not dissuade a grandparent who believes that the best interests of a child would be best served if they became the primary caretaker and guardian of their grandchild.
