Supervised Parenting Time In New Jersey

When you are working through the process of determining child custody with the court, keep in mind that not all custody arrangements give both parents custody of the child. In many cases, one parent is named the custodial parent and the other is given parenting time with the child. Parenting time is a regularly-scheduled time for the parent and the child to spend together. Except for in cases where there is a significant threat to the child’s wellbeing, it is important for a child to maintain a relationship with each of his or her parents as he or she grows up.

If the court feels that there is an element present in the noncustodial parent’s household or lifestyle that puts the child in danger, it could require that the parent’s visits with the child be restricted in some way. This is known as supervised parenting time. Generally, supervised parenting time is ordered when one or more of the following elements are present:

• The parent has a history of neglect
• The parent or another member of his or her household has a history of domestic violence
• The parent has a criminal history that could potentially endanger the child
• The parent has a history of irresponsible behavior, such as drunk driving
• The parent or a member of his or her household is currently struggling with a drug addiction
• The parent engages in a religious, cultural, or social practice that the court feels could endanger the child

A trusted friend or relative, including the child’s custodial parent, may be the supervisor for the child’s supervised visits. However, some families opt to have their supervised visits through the New Jersey Supervised Visitation Program.

Court Sponsored Supervised Visitation Program

The Supervised Visitation Program is a court program that provides parents and children with a neutral, public place to have their supervised visits. Trained professionals are present during these visits to facilitate parent-child relationships and address any problems that arise in a safe, productive manner.

Participation in the program is meant to only last for a limited time. Usually, the program ends when the parent completes a specific goal, such as an anger management or drug rehabilitation program. Once the program is complete, the court re-evaluates the family’s case to determine the right custody arrangement for the child.

At all stages of the custody determination process, it is important that you work with a New Jersey family attorney who can advocate for you and your child. To get started with a team of capable attorneys, contact The Law Office of Eric B. Hannum Esq., LLC. at (732) 365-3299 today to schedule your initial legal consultation with our firm. We can answer your questions about the child custody determination process, the Supervised Visitation Program, and more topics related to divorce and family law. Do not wait to begin working with us. We proudly serve clients in Monmouth, Mercer, Middlesex, Ocean, and Burlington counties.