• via Alberto da Giussano, 26, 20145 Milano
  • +39 02 4003 1253
  • info@studiolegalebianucci.it
  • Criminal Lawyer, Family Lawyer, Divorce Lawyer

Commentary on the ruling of Cass. civ., Sez. VI - 1, n. 28883 of 2020: co-parenting and visitation rights

The ruling n. 28883 of 2020 by the Court of Cassation proves to be crucial in the context of marital separation and visitation rights concerning minor children. The Court upheld the appeal of a father, D.P.M., who challenged the decision of the Court of Appeal of Genoa, which had limited the visitation arrangements with his daughter A., establishing a visitation regime that dated back to when the minor was only six months old. This decision raised questions about the proper application of the principle of co-parenting and the best interests of the child.

The context of the ruling

In the judicial proceedings, the father had requested a modification of the visitation regime, believing that the current arrangements did not ensure a proper father-daughter relationship. However, the Court of Appeal maintained the previous decree, relying on the conclusions of an expert witness who had excluded overnight stays with the father, justifying this choice by citing the alleged immaturity of the parent and the conflict with the other parent, G.I.

The principle of co-parenting must ensure an active presence of both parents in the child's life, to foster stable and meaningful emotional relationships.

The motivations of the Court of Cassation

The Court of Cassation accepted the father's appeal, emphasizing that the Court of Appeal had not adequately considered the best interests of the minor and the importance of co-parenting. Italian case law, supported by European regulations such as Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights, asserts that restrictions on visitation rights must be justified by solid and specific reasons.

  • The right to co-parenting implies the necessity to ensure stable relationships with both parents.
  • Judicial decisions must be clearly and thoroughly motivated, especially regarding the child's interests.
  • The conflict between parents should not preclude the minor's relationship with either parent.

Conclusions

In conclusion, the ruling n. 28883 of 2020 represents an important step in the protection of minors' rights in separation situations. The Court of Cassation reiterated the need to carefully assess the emotional and relational dynamics between parents and children, so that the principle of co-parenting is effectively respected. This case reminds us of the importance of a balanced approach focused on the well-being of the child, which is fundamental in all family disputes.