In domestic relations law, visitation plays a role in almost all custody arrangements unless deemed not in "a child's best interest."
Typically the spouse who does not have physical custody of the child has the legal right to visitation. The schedule and amount of visitation is detailed in a divorce, annulment, or separation agreement.
Visitation may not be denied on the grounds that the visiting parent has failed to pay child support. Other enforcement methods must be used in such a case. In some cases, supervised visitation is ordered, so that the parent and child meet in a neutral place with another person present, often an employee of a visitation center. Visitation orders may be modifed by mutual consent of the parents or by the court.
In some states, a writ of attachment form must be delivered to the county sheriff or similar officer, with appropriate filing fees, before the shefiff is authorized to enforce a visitation order. Costs and procedures vary by locality, so local laws should be consulted for specific requirements in your area.
