When two parents get divorced, and there’s a dispute over child custody, courts must sometimes make difficult decisions. On the one hand, Texas law says judges must make custody and visitation decisions based on the child’s best interests. At the same time, it’s public policy for courts to have both parents involved in the child’s life whenever possible. These two principles may conflict when one parent has a history of substance abuse, domestic abuse, or other issues that might harm the child.
If the courts want a parent involved in a child’s life but have concerns about the child’s safety when they are with that parent, they may order supervised visitation. There are strict rules for supervised visitation in Texas, and you’ll find more information about these rules below.
Where Do Supervised Visits with Children Take Place?
Supervised visits with children in Texas usually happen in neutral, safe locations to help ensure the child’s well-being. These visits may take place at a supervised visitation center, where trained staff monitor interactions and provide a structured environment. Supervised visits may also take place at a psychologist or psychiatrist’s office so they can monitor the visit. Some families opt for visits in public areas, such as libraries, parks, or community centers, as long as the courts approve the location. The chosen location often depends on the court’s orders, the child’s needs, and the availability of a suitable, neutral monitor. The goal is to create a calm, safe setting where the child can bond with the visiting parent.
How Long Does Supervised Visitation Last?
Individual supervised visits in Texas often last one to two hours, but the court may allow longer visits in some cases. The specific duration depends on the child’s needs, the court’s order, and the availability of neutral monitors.
The overall duration of a supervised visitation order can vary widely. Some orders last a few months. Others remain in place until the court determines the parent can keep the child safe during visits without supervision. Some factors that influence the duration of a supervised visitation order are the non-custodial parent’s compliance with visitation rules and their ability to provide a safe environment.
Courts usually review the supervised visitation arrangement periodically to decide if monitoring is still necessary. If the supervised parent shows they’re responsible and builds trust with the other parent and the courts, the courts might modify the order to allow unsupervised visits.
Who Pays for Supervised Visitation?
In Texas, the non-custodial parent usually pays for supervised visitation. This includes fees for visitation centers or professional supervisors. If the non-custodial parent has limited financial resources, the court might require the custodial parent to share or cover the costs. When a family member or friend is the supervisor, there may not be a fee. However, both parents must agree on this arrangement, and the court must approve it. Costs can vary depending on the location, length, and frequency of visits.
Parents struggling to afford supervised visitation fees may ask the court for alternative financial arrangements. Each case is unique, and the court will decide based on the circumstances and the child’s best interests.
What Happens If Supervised Visitation Is Violated?
A non-custodial parent who violates the rules of a supervised visitation order will likely be in big trouble. The courts could ban the parent from any visits with their child or place additional restrictions on any visits. Similarly, parents under a supervised visitation order should make every effort to let the other parent and the courts know if they wish to change the date or time of a planned visit. Failing to communicate with the other parents and the courts, even without malicious intent, could have severe consequences.
How To Request a Supervised Visitation Order or the End of One
Whether you want a supervised visitation order or believe an existing order is no longer justified, it’s crucial to work with an experienced attorney. Your lawyer can help you petition the courts, collect evidence to support your position, and represent you in any hearings. Judges don’t make these decisions lightly, and a Texas child custody lawyer can help you make a persuasive case for your desired outcome.
Contact Our Katy, TX, Child Custody Attorneys Now for Legal Help
The Katy, TX, child custody lawyers at the Adams Law Firm understand your desire to keep your child safe and spend as much time with them as possible. Whether you want a supervised visitation order or need help contesting one, trust us to provide compassionate, dedicated representation throughout your case. Call now or complete our contact form for a confidential consultation.
