Following a deploying parent’s receiving notice of deployment, either a deploying parent or nondeploying parent may request an expedited hearing to be heard within ten (10) days or prior to deployment, whichever occurs first, on any matter pertaining to custodial or visitation responsibility. The application shall include the date on which the deployment began or begins. If the date of deployment is uncertain, the approximate date shall be included. The court shall grant a request for an expedited hearing if the deploying parent’s ability, or anticipated ability, to appear in person at a regularly scheduled hearing would be prevented by the deployment or preparation for the deployment. If the deployed or deploying parent is seeking the right to designate a family member to determine visitation, then the name of the family member or another person with a close and substantial relationship to the child shall be stated in the application.
Added by Laws 2011, c. 354, § 8, emerg. eff. May 26, 2011.