The term visitation is becoming archaic in divorce actions. With the increasing involvement of both parties with the children of their relationship, the more appropriate term to use is “parenting plan”. In other words, taking into account the age and needs of the child as well as the schedules of the child and the parents, time must be provided for both parties to enjoy the society of their child. As one learned judge from Massachusetts often opined: “You may no longer be husband and wife, but parents are forever”.
So long as both parties are committed to the best interests of their children, and they can communicate with each other, parenting plans that result in shared physical custody is no longer unusual in Massachusetts.
PhilipJByers
Philip J. Byers, Attorney 