What is Supervised Visitation?

Sometimes, Connecticut courts will order “supervised visitation” in a divorce or custody case. But what is it?

Read on to learn more.

Supervised Visitation Basics

Even when the court does not grant a parent physical custody, the parent may still be eligible for visitation rights. The court can order supervised visitation when it’s concerned about a child’s safety with one parent. Generally speaking, courts prefer that children see their parents if possible. Courts can order either permanent or temporary supervised visitation.

Who is the Supervisor?

Sometimes the judge will order that visitation be supervised by a professional. In other cases, the court names a supervisor that the children know. In order for the judge to go with a non-professional, the supervisor should be someone who will not increase conflict between the parents.

When Do Courts Order Visitation Supervised?

Generally speaking, the court will order visitation to be supervised when the judge is concerned about a parent being alone with a child. The court’s focus is the child’s best interest, and so judges balance the importance of children having contact with a parent with keeping that child safe. The goal of supervised visitation is intended to ensure visitation is safe while keeping the connection between parent and child.

Most commonly, courts order supervised visitation in cases where a parent has (or the court fears a parent has a problem with:

• Drugs, alcohol, or substance abuse
• Anger
• Impulse control
• Domestic Violence
• Sexual impropriety

Changing or Modifying Custody

Custody and visitation can be changed or modified Post Judgment only when it’s in the child’s best interest. That said, supervised visitation is frequently temporary. It can transition into unsupervised visitation when a parent presents new or additional information to the court, or after a parent successfully completes requirements like classes, tests, or evaluations.

Next Steps

For more information about Connecticut divorce and family law, check out our Divorce Information and Facts. If you have questions or want to learn more about how our team of divorce attorneys can help you with your divorce or Post Judgment issue, please contact us here.