By Jeff J. Horn – Divorce Attorney
When parents separate or divorce in Ocean County, NJ, one of the most important issues to resolve is parenting time—also known as visitation. Parenting time refers to the schedule that determines when each parent spends time with the child. Understanding how these schedules are created, modified, and enforced is crucial for maintaining stability in your child’s life.
At Horn Law Group, we guide families in Ocean County through every step of the parenting time process, from drafting initial agreements to resolving disputes in court.
What Is Parenting Time?
Parenting time in Ocean County NJ refers to the time a non-custodial parent spends with their child. The parent with primary physical custody is typically known as the “parent of primary residence,” while the other parent is the “parent of alternate residence.” However, in joint custody arrangements, time may be more evenly split.
The goal of parenting time is to support a strong, healthy relationship between the child and both parents—so long as it serves the child’s best interests.
Common Parenting Time Schedules in Ocean County
Each family’s parenting time plan will look different, but common schedules in Ocean County include:
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Alternating weekends with one midweek evening
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2-2-3 or 5-2-2-5 rotations for shared parenting time
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Week-on/week-off schedules for older children
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Holiday and vacation time divisions (e.g., alternating holidays, split school breaks)
The New Jersey Courts encourage flexible and child-focused arrangements. Parents are often encouraged to cooperate and draft their own schedule through mediation. If no agreement is reached, a judge may impose a schedule based on the child’s needs.
What Judges Consider When Approving Parenting Time
Ocean County family court judges will always consider the child’s best interests first. Factors influencing parenting time include:
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The child’s age and emotional needs
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The relationship between the child and each parent
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Each parent’s work schedule and availability
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The distance between the parents’ homes
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Any history of domestic violence or abuse
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The child’s school and extracurricular schedule
If safety is a concern, the court may order supervised visitation or other protective measures.
Modifying Parenting Time in Ocean County
Life changes. If your current visitation schedule no longer works, you can request a modification by filing a motion with the Ocean County Superior Court. Reasons for modification might include:
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A parent’s relocation
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Changes in the child’s school or health needs
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Repeated violations of the parenting time agreement
You’ll need to demonstrate a substantial change in circumstances and provide documentation, such as calendars, text messages, or school records.
Enforcing Parenting Time Rights
If one parent is violating the parenting time order, the other can file a motion to enforce it. The court may respond by:
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Ordering makeup parenting time
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Imposing fines or fees
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Holding the violating parent in contempt
Always go through legal channels—do not withhold your child or retaliate, as this can hurt your own custody rights.
Talk to a Parenting Time Lawyer in Ocean County NJ
Whether you’re establishing a visitation schedule or dealing with violations, having a knowledgeable family law attorney makes a difference. At Horn Law Group, we’ve helped families across Ocean County secure fair and effective parenting time arrangements.
If you’re facing challenges with your parenting time in Ocean County NJ, contact us today to schedule a consultation.
NJ Courts Parenting Time Resources
Thanks to Horn Law Group, LLC intern Dillon Uhrig
Photo by Steven Van Loy on Unsplash