In California, parents are subject to having custody or visitation with their child in any given child custody proceeding. Most parents file to gain more custody of their child and do not wish to only have visitation rights. However, custody and visitation arrangements don’t end there. There is also supervised visitation, which the court may order in certain circumstances.
What Is Supervised Visitation?
Supervised visitation is just what it sounds like – when one parent has custody of the child and the other is allowed visit with the child but only as supervised, either by a lay person or professional. The court will specify who will be the supervisor once the orders are made.
When Is Supervised Visitation Ordered?
A judge can order supervised visitation for a number of reasons, all intended to protect the best interests of the child. These reasons include:
- Introducing the parent-child relationship after the parent has been out of the child’s life;
- When there is a history of abuse or neglect;
- When there are issues concerning mental illness;
- When there is a threat of abduction of the child; or
- Giving the visiting parent a chance to iron out specific issues.
Even though supervised visitation is often not ideal for most parents, it does not have to be permanent. Parents are free to modify an order with supervised visitation. However, to be successful in their action, they must ensure they show the court that certain circumstances have changed, among other factors.
Why You Should Hire An Attorney
Child custody matters are often emotionally taxing and can be very complex. This is why it is a good idea to hire an experience attorney who can help you resolve your case favorably. The family law attorneys at Butler Law, PC know how to help you. If you are thinking of hiring an attorney for your child custody matter, contact us today!