How Do Supervised Visits Work in New Jersey?
By Space Coast Daily // August 30, 2022
In New Jersey, family courts generally believe that it is in a child’s best interests to continue seeing both parents – at least to some degree – even if one parent has engaged in violent, abusive, or otherwise dangerous behavior in the past. If you are facing the possibility of leaving your child with someone who you believe poses a risk, this might seem like a distressing prospect.
However, you should know that whenever there is a serious risk to the children, visits are supervised. But what does this actually mean? What does a supervised visit look like?
If you have questions such as these, you might want to book a consultation with a legal professional, such as a family law attorney in New Jersey. Our lawyers can explain the various ins and outs of supervised visits, and we can guide you toward a positive outcome in a highly efficient manner.
We can also help you with virtually every other aspect of your divorce, as well, such as child support, property division, and alimony/spousal support. For best results, book a consultation as soon as possible.
The Supervised Visit Program
According to the New Jersey Courts, the supervised visit program has several notable features:
■ Visits occur in a neutral setting
■ There is no interference from the custodial parent
■ Visits are supervised by trained volunteers or student interns
■ Safety is maintained at all times
■ The goal is to help non-custodial parents and children maintain relationships
As you can see, the New Jersey Courts make it quite clear that the custodial parent is not allowed to interfere with these visits. In most cases, this means that you will not be present. However, you can rest assured that the visits will still be supervised adequately – even if you are not there to watch the interaction personally.
The volunteers responsible for overseeing these visits are required to undergo a special training course beforehand, and they are wholly committed to ensuring the safety of your child.
When are Supervised Visits Needed?
Supervised visits are required whenever the court becomes concerned that if left alone with a parent, the child could come to harm. Usually, supervised visits are ordered when a non-custodial parent has a history of various issues, including:
■ Child abuse
■ Medical disabilities
■ Psychiatric problems
■ “Other situations where the safety and welfare of the child may be jeopardized.”
The last factor is intentionally broad and open-ended, and it gives the courts considerable discretion over whether supervised visits are required for less obvious issues. For example, a parent might have a considerable problem with substance abuse, and the child may come to harm if the parent engages in substance abuse without any supervision.
Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney Today
If you have been searching the New Jersey area for an experienced family law attorney, look no further than Giro, LLP, Attorneys at Law. Over the years, we have helped numerous parents achieve positive outcomes with regard to parenting schedules, visitation, and much more. We know that concerns over your children’s safety are perhaps the most crucial aspect of your entire divorce, and we are ready to fight for your rights as a parent. Book your consultation today.
Publisher: Media Challengers
