Massachusetts Visitation Laws and Rights
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last updated December 17, 2018
In the wake of a breakup or impending divorce, couples with children must address custody issues. When one parent is the primary custodial parent, generally the other parent has visitation rights. Parents can try to come to some consensus about what to do; if they're successful, a court will usually follow their agreement. However, if the parents can't come to an understanding, the court steps in and has the final say over what happens to the child concerning visitation rights by using the "best interests of the child" test.
Massachusetts Visitation Laws and Rights at a Glance
The best way to get assistance with statutory interpretation is to work with an attorney. However, before you reach that step, you can gain understanding of the law by reading a plain English version of the content. Read the chart below for an explanation of visitation laws and rights in Massachusetts.
Statutes |
Massachusetts General Laws, Part II. |
Visitation Rights: Limitations
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The court can't make an order providing "parenting time" or visitation rights to any parent under the following conditions:
Supervised Visitation If the court finds that there's abuse, then the child's safety must be addressed in the visitation order. The court may order:
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Grandparent Rights |
Sometimes grandparents have the right to visitation. They may petition for visitation rights under specific circumstances. They must prove the following:
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Contents of Child Visitation Schedule |
The child's visitation schedule includes:
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Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Massachusetts Visitation Laws and Rights: Related Resources
Questions about Massachusetts Visitation Rights? Contact an Attorney
Understanding your visitation rights in Massachusetts can be confusing, but it's important for both you and your child to be aware of the laws that greatly impact your lives. Contact a skilled Massachusetts attorney for assistance.
Next Steps: Search for a Local Attorney
Contact a qualified attorney.