Oregon law
It is Oregon policy and law to make sure children get to see both of their parents often, provided that both parents are able and willing to parent the child. It is very rare that a court will deny one parent the right to have regular contact with their children.
Even in situations where a parent has been abusive to the children or the other parent, the court will still typically allow parenting time. However, in these cases, the court must create rules and restrictions for the abusive parent's parenting time so that the children can stay safe.
During the custody case
Generally, it is best for children to continue to see both parents even after the parent's relationship ends. Thus, during a custody case, courts want to see whether a parent will encourage a good relationship between the child and the other parent.
If one parent has engaged in actions or speech that interfere with a child’s relationship with the other parent, then the court may award custody or extended parenting time to the other parent.
After the custody case
After a custody case is closed, parents typically are still obliged to foster a strong relationship between a child and the child’s other parent. If one parent keeps the child from the other parent, even if the first parent has sole custody, the second parent can ask the court to enforce or modify the parenting plan.
During an enforcement or modification case, the court can order several kinds of relief, including make-up parenting time, counseling or parenting classes, financial penalties, and changes to the parenting plan or child support.
Unless permitted by the court, it is in your and your child’s best interest to encourage a healthy relationship between your child and their other parent.