Suburban Law Enforcement Academy (SLEA) BA State Certification Practice Exam

What offense is committed when one parent prevents the other from exercising their visitation rights?

1. Custodial interference

2. Unlawful visitation interference

3. Child neglect

4. Parental alienation

The correct answer is: Unlawful visitation interference

The offense committed when one parent prevents the other from exercising their visitation rights is best described as unlawful visitation interference. This act occurs when one parent intentionally obstructs the other parent’s legally granted visitation rights, which can undermine the child’s relationship with both parents and can lead to legal consequences. This offense is recognized within family law, as visitation rights are typically established through legal agreements or court orders, making interference a violation of those arrangements. It highlights the importance of honoring custody arrangements for the emotional and psychological well-being of the child involved. The other options, while related to family dynamics and custody disputes, focus on different issues. Custodial interference implies preventing a parent from having custody or control over the child, while parental alienation suggests a more extensive manipulation aiming to create hostility toward the other parent. Child neglect generally refers to a failure to provide necessary care or support to a child, which is not directly applicable to visitation rights.