Question from Artic Wolf, What Can I Do If I’m Paying Child Support But Denied Access to My Child in Arizona?
Answer from AI:
Understanding Your Rights
In Arizona, as in most states, both parents have a legal right to have a relationship with their child, regardless of the status of child support payments. This means that even if you’re paying child support, you should still have the right to visitation or parenting time with your child. The custodial parent cannot legally deny you access to your child simply because you’re paying child support.
Legal Aid and Low-Cost Legal Services
If you cannot afford a lawyer, there are resources available to help you. Legal aid organizations provide free or low-cost legal services to those who qualify. In Arizona, you might consider contacting Arizona Law Help or the Volunteer Lawyers Program of Maricopa County. These organizations can provide legal advice, help you understand your rights, and possibly represent you in court.
Steps to Take
- Document Everything: Keep a record of all interactions with the custodial parent. This includes attempts to communicate or visit your child, and any responses (or lack thereof) from the other parent.
- Request a Court Order: If you don’t already have a court order for visitation or parenting time, you may need to request one. This can be done by filing a petition with the court.
- Enforce a Court Order: If you already have a court order for visitation or parenting time and the custodial parent is not complying, you can ask the court to enforce the order. This is typically done by filing a motion for enforcement.
Self-Help Resources
The Arizona Judicial Branch provides a variety of self-service forms and resources for individuals who are representing themselves in court. This includes forms for establishing, modifying, and enforcing parenting time and visitation orders.
Consult with a Legal Professional
While this information provides a general overview, every situation is unique. It’s important to consult with a legal professional for personalized advice. Even if you cannot afford a lawyer, legal aid organizations and self-help resources can provide valuable assistance.
Please note that this information is intended to provide a general understanding of the law. It is not intended to provide legal advice. Always consult with a legal professional for advice related to your specific situation.
The answer is written by AI.
The text above is written by AI, i.e., a computer.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this response is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. While we strive to provide accurate information, we make no guarantees regarding the accuracy or legal validity of the information presented. Laws and regulations vary by jurisdiction and can change over time, and the application of laws can vary widely based on the specific facts and circumstances involved. Therefore, you should consult with a qualified legal professional before making any decisions related to legal matters. Do not rely solely on the information provided in this response for any legal decisions. We disclaim any and all liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on the contents of this response.
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