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When is Supervised Visitation Necessary?

On Behalf of | Jul 19, 2021 | Child Custody, Children & Divorce, Family Law, Firm News

Generally, it is always in the best interests of a child to maintain a relationship with both parents. Family courts believe this is true even when it may be unsafe to leave the child alone with one of the parents. Instead of keeping the child from visiting the other parent, a judge may order supervised visitation. In some cases, supervised visitation may be temporary until the court sorts out what is best for the child.

Why a Judge May Order Supervised Visitation

Although it is best for both parents to be involved in the life of a child, a judge will always put the emotional and physical safety of a child first. Therefore, to ensure the child is not in any danger, a judge will order supervised visitation.

Here are some circumstances that may require supervised visitation:

  • The parent abused the child.
  • The parent was physically abusive toward the other parent or to someone else in the household.
  • The parent has a substance abuse issue.
  • The parent neglected or abandoned the child.
  • The parent is not mentally stable and is suffering from a severe mental illness.
  • The parent threatened to abduct the child or is trying to keep the child from the other parent.

Supervised visits tend to require the parent and child to conduct their visit in a facility that is intended for that purpose. It will be overseen by a social worker or another third-party monitor. In some cases, the third-party monitor may be someone whom both parents agree upon.

If you were assigned supervised visitation, it is crucial that you attend each visit as ordered, barring any illnesses or other emergencies. In some cases, this order may be permanent. In others, it may be possible for you to eventually have unsupervised visitation. However, it is crucial for you to follow the plan laid out for you by the judge to achieve this.

Discuss Your Family Law Case with a Knowledgeable Legal Professional Today!

If you are in the middle of a child custody dispute, the family law team at Barach Law Group LLC can assist you. Whether you are requesting supervised visits to keep your children safe or seeking unsupervised visitation, our team can provide the compassionate guidance you need.

Reach out to our law office today at 617-819-1805 to request a consultation with a member of our team to get started on your case.