Parents often ask what rights they retain while a divorce is pending and after judgment. The answer depends on the current court orders and the facts of the family. Parental rights are accompanied by responsibilities to follow orders, protect the child’s welfare and support the child’s relationship with the other parent when doing so is safe.
Decision-Making and Access to Information
A custody order should identify who makes major decisions about education, health care and other important issues. Parents may also need clear terms governing access to school, medical and activity information. The existence of joint legal custody does not eliminate the need to communicate or comply with the specific order.
Parenting Time
Parenting time is determined by the child’s best interests, not by a fixed entitlement to a particular percentage of time. Orders may include a regular schedule, holidays, vacations, transportation rules and conditions necessary for safety. A parent should use the court process, rather than self-help, to address a serious dispute or request a lasting change.
Responsibilities Under a Custody Order
- Follow the written schedule and exchange terms.
- Share information required by the order.
- Avoid placing the child in the middle of adult disagreements.
- Document significant issues accurately and without exaggeration.
- Seek court review when a material problem cannot be resolved.
Modification, Enforcement and Safety
A post-judgment modification generally requires a properly filed request and facts that satisfy Connecticut law. A violation may support an enforcement motion, but the appropriate remedy depends on the language of the order and the circumstances. If there is immediate danger, call 911. Custody emergencies and civil restraining orders use different procedures from ordinary modification requests.
For the broader legal standards and parenting-plan issues, read our main Connecticut child custody guide. Related pages address child support and family violence and restraining orders.
Discuss a Connecticut Family-Law Matter
Call (203) 373-9080 or use the contact form on this page. Submitting a form does not create an attorney-client relationship. Representation begins only after a conflicts check and a written engagement agreement.
Reviewed September 2026. Connecticut law and court procedures can change. This page provides general information and is not legal advice.
