This is the next post in our series on the handling of Little Rock, Arkansas child custody cases which involve supervised visitation. Our last article discussed the process of requesting that visitation be supervised. It is important to understand that there are several steps to that process and that litigating such matters can be highly complicated. It is important that you retain an attorney who is experienced in handling such matters. In this article we will discuss a very important topic – what it is parents should expect during their first supervised visit. If you or a loved one require assistance then contact our office today to speak with a lawyer.
The terms of supervised child visitation will be spelled out in the Family Court’s order. The order will lay out when visitation occurs and who is to serve as the supervisor. For obvious reasons, Courts will typically not allow the non-offending parent to serve as the supervisor. Instead, the Court will typically choose a friend or relative of the family or some other non-objectionable third party. Visitation will typically be held in a public place. Examples of such places can include parks, playgrounds, or indoor child friendly facilities – such as a McDonald’s “Play Place.” The supervisor will typically transport the child to and from the visitation. The Court will typically require that the supervisor not inject themselves into the visitation; they are there simply to ensure that the child remains safe and that the supervised parent does not engage in conduct that is detrimental to the child.
It is vital that the supervised parent use their time with the child properly. They should never discuss the case with the child. Nor should they demean the other parent in the presence of the child. Likewise, the supervisor should not discuss the litigation with the child or interfere in the visitation. If it is shown that the supervised parent is behaving inappropriately, in the presence of the child, then the Court may take steps to further restrict visitation. Likewise, if the supervisor is shown to be behaving inappropriately then the Court is likely to appoint a new supervisor.
If you or a loved one are involved in a case involving supervised visitation then it is important that you contact an attorney to discuss your situation. The Court’s concerns will always be for the best interests of the child. Our Little Rock child custody lawyers will take steps to make sure that the interests of both you and the child are protected. We take pride in the level of service we provide and our firm is ready to assist you. We also handle matters in Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Springdale, Jonesboro, North Little Rock, Conway, Rogers, Pine Bluff and throughout the rest of the state.