Karnataka HC Drops 'Visitation'—Parents Are Not Visitors, Court Declares

The Karnataka High Court on Tuesday ordered all family courts across the state to replace the term 'visitation' with 'parenting time' in child custody cases. The directive, issued by a division bench, applies to all proceedings involving custody and access to children, marking a significant shift in judicial terminology.

The court observed that calling it 'parenting time' recognises a simple truth that no parent is a 'visitor' in the life of a child. The bench noted that the term 'visitation' carries a stigma and fails to reflect the ongoing parental role of the non-custodial parent. This move aligns with global best practices in family law, where 'parenting time' is increasingly preferred to emphasise shared responsibilities.

The order is expected to influence custody jurisprudence nationwide, potentially prompting other high courts to adopt similar language. Legal experts have welcomed the decision, saying it could reduce parental conflict and promote cooperative co-parenting. The Karnataka High Court has directed its registry to circulate the order to all family courts for immediate implementation.