The thought of losing precious time with your children is often the toughest part of the divorce process. Given the stakes, custody is typically a contentious matter that requires court intervention. In some cases, the court might decide a child should reside with one parent while the other is granted supervised visitation. Please continue reading to learn when supervised visitation is appropriate in New Jersey and how a dedicated Somerset County Parenting Time Attorney can help you navigate your legal options.
When is Supervised Visitation Granted in New Jersey?
First and foremost, it’s crucial to understand that New Jersey courts generally find it in a child’s best interest to maintain parent-child bonds. As such, the court usually aims for joint custody arrangements when it’s deemed safe. However, when safety concerns arise, they may order supervised visitation for the non-custodial parent.
Normally, these sessions are overseen by a neutral professional, such as a qualified volunteer or child development specialist. Their primary objective is to monitor the interaction and ensure a secure environment. These sessions usually take place in controlled facilities. Ultimately, these structured visits allow the non-custodial parent to improve their circumstances and transition to unsupervised visits.
Supervised visitation is granted in New Jersey when red flags regarding a child’s well-being arise during unsupervised time. Common reasons include:
- History of domestic violence or neglect
- Addiction struggles
- Mental health concerns
- Unsafe home environment
- Risk of parental abduction
- Re-introducing a parent
It should be noted that these visits can help rebuild a damaged relationship between a parent and children who have been apart for a long period, enabling them to reconnect over time.
What Can I Do if I Have Concerns About My Child’s Safety?
If you have concerns about your child’s safety while they are spending time with their other parent, prompt action is crucial to ensure your child’s well-being. You can petition the court for supervised visitation; however, it’s important to note that it is not automatically granted. An experienced attorney can help you file a motion in family court and present compelling evidence demonstrating a legitimate safety risk.
If supervised visitation is granted, the court will dictate the duration, location, and who will supervise the visits. The supervisor can stop the visit if they believe the child is in danger. These arrangements are typically temporary. They usually last until the parent completes classes or counseling.
At Siragusa Law Firm, we are prepared to advocate for your child’s best interests. Connect with our legal team today to schedule a consultation to learn how we can assist you during these difficult times.