During divorce, the courts aim to achieve a fair resolution for all parties involved. In cases where children are involved, their well-being is prioritized above all else.
Supervised visitation is a type of arrangement ordered by the court during divorce or separation proceedings, where a neutral third party supervises visits between a parent and their child. There are several reasons why you may want to pursue a supervised visitation arrangement.
There is an unmanaged mental illness of the parent
If the other parent has an unmanaged mental illness that could potentially endanger the child’s safety or well-being, supervised visitation may be necessary. Mental illnesses such as severe depression, bipolar disorder or substance abuse issues can impair judgment and behavior, posing risks to the child during unsupervised visits. Supervised visitation ensures that a responsible adult is present to monitor interactions and intervene if necessary to protect the child from any harm or neglect.
There are safety concerns
You can request supervised visitation in cases where there are safety concerns regarding the parent’s ability to provide a secure environment for the child. This could include situations where there is evidence of past or present domestic violence, child abuse, neglect or substance abuse within the household. Supervised visitation helps mitigate the risk of harm to the child by ensuring that visits occur in a controlled setting where the parent’s behavior can be monitored closely.
The child is estranged from the other parent
Estrangement is another reason to opt for supervised visitation. If there has been a significant period of separation between the child and the other parent, whether due to strained relationships, geographical distance or other factors, supervised visitation can help reintroduce and rebuild the parent-child relationship in a structured and supportive environment. It allows for gradual reconnection under the guidance of a neutral third party who can facilitate communication and address any underlying issues that may have contributed to the estrangement.
When considering your parenting options during divorce, seeking legal counsel can provide invaluable guidance and help you better understand the implications and potential outcomes of choosing supervised visitation.