Generally speaking, a court can restrict or deny visitation if the court believes that the child might be placed in danger by the visitation. You would need to return to court to seek changes in the custody or visitation agreements. Since laws, policies, and procedures around child custody matters vary from State to State, you may want to consult with and/or obtain the services of an attorney who practices in the area of family law in your State. If you need assistance in locating and/or paying for an attorney, the American Bar Association provides a lawyer referral service at http://www.abanet.org/legalservices/lris/home.html (click on the Directory of Local Programs) and the Consumers’ Guide to Legal Help at http://www.abanet.org/legalservices/findlegalhelp/home.cfm for pro bono attorney referrals and more. If you have any concerns that your child is being harmed while in the care of his/her other parent, you should report your concerns to the appropriate authorities, such as Child Protective Services (CPS), in the State in which the child resides. Each State has trained professionals who can evaluate the situation and determine whether intervention and services are needed. Most States have a toll-free number to call to report suspected abuse. Please refer to the related organizations listing at http://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/reslist/rl_dsp.cfm?rs_id=5&rate_chno=11-11172 for information about where to call to make a report with your State. Another resource for information on how and where to file a report of suspected child abuse and neglect is the Childhelp® National Child Abuse Hotline. Childhelp® can be reached seven days a week, 24-hours a day, at their toll-free number, 1.800.4-A CHILD® (1.800.422.4453). The Federal government does not have the authority to intervene in individual child custody or child welfare cases. State agencies and courts make the decisions involving child custody and visitation rights in each State according to State laws.
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