Custody and Parenting Time (Visitation)

Court-ordered child custody determines who has the legal responsibility to care for and make decisions about a child. Custody can be decided in a divorce. There are different types of custody arrangements. Sole custody is when one parent has sole authority to make all decisions regarding the child's upbringing. A parent with sole custody is free to consult with the other parent regarding those decisions, but the final say regarding such decisions rests with the custodial parent. Joint custody is when both parents share the responsibility and have authority to make decisions regarding the child's upbringing. Joint custody does not necessarily mean that the child lives with each parent an equal amount of time.

Parenting time (visitation) is the time the non-custodial parent spends with a child. Parenting plans must set forth a minimum amount of parenting time for the parent who does not have custody. Parenting time can be restricted or denied by a judge if the parenting time would place the child in danger, or if the judge decides that restriction or denial is in the child's best interest. If parents cannot come to an agreement on custody and parenting time, a judge will hear both sides and decide what is best for the child.

Unmarried Custody Information 

Other Requirements in Deschutes County:

All parents, whether married or unmarried must attend a divorcing parents seminar and view the introduction video below:

Seminar for Divorcing Parents

Introduction to Divorcing in Deschutes County