Some California parents may not be considered fit or able to provide regular parenting care for their children. In addition, there may be concerns that kids could experience dangers or harms if regular parental visitation is granted. However, family courts recognize that children have a strong interest in an ongoing relationship with both of their parents. As a result, judges may order supervised visitation, which is when a noncustodial parent is only allowed to see their kids in the presence of another person acting as a supervisor. While the supervisor is often a professional like a counselor or social worker, it could also be another family member.
Supervised visitation can vary from case to case. It might take place at the parent’s home, or it could be held at a specified visitation facility maintained for that purpose. There are a number of reasons why a judge may order supervised visitation. For example, the parent may be accused of child abuse or domestic violence. Others may experience certain troubling issues that prevent them from providing safe and effective care for their children. Examples include alcohol or drug addiction or untreated serious mental health concerns.
Supervised visitation provides a level of protection while enabling parents to remain in communication with their children. In the order requiring supervised visitation, the family court judge will indicate the location for the visitation sessions as well as specify who will be responsible for supervising the meetings.
Depending on the reason for the supervision and the current situation, the length of time of supervised visitation may vary. For example, regular visitation could be granted if the parent has overcome addiction. A family law attorney can help concerned parents to go to court to handle child custody issues and help protect their children’s safety.