In a parent-child relationship, the parent usually isn’t accountable to another person, possibly even to a stranger, for when, where, and how long they can spend with their child. This is exactly what might happen if, during a divorce, the court only allows you supervised visitation. You might, understandably, feel like the court is punishing you, especially if your ex made allegations of abuse that you believe are untrue.
It’s important, however, to take a different perspective. Instead of seeing it as the court presuming your guilt, try to imagine it as an opportunity to demonstrate to the court, through the witness of the supervisor, that your biggest concern is the health and happiness of your child. Courts know abuse allegations are sometimes false, and how you act in this moment can have a big impact.
Still, you may feel nervous about what exactly will happen during your supervised visits, and what you should do or avoid during these. Keep reading to learn more about supervised visitation, and if you are concerned about custody or visitation after a divorce for which you are planning, call a Memphis child visitation lawyer today
What Will the Supervisor Do During Supervised Visitation Meetings?
On the plus side of a very difficult, you will most likely know who the supervisor is. Although it is possible to have a stranger as a supervisor, it is rare, considering that parenting time is supervised by someone agreed upon by the parents and deemed acceptable by the court. Only if you and your ex can’t agree, would the Court appoint a supervisor.
You may feel uncomfortable with the supervisor, as though you’ve been burdened with a babysitter. But remember that the supervisor took on a big responsibility largely to help you and your family. The supervisor is there to prevent inappropriate interactions between you and your child, while also being utterly unobtrusive, like a part of the background. Inappropriate interactions might include, for example, physical contact in the case of an abuse accusation. If you go against the rule, the visit may be ended early so that your child is not uncomfortable.
Previously, supervision might take place at a person’s home or a public place suitable for children, like parks and zoos. More recently, jurisprudential developments have led to the establishment of supervised visitation centers.
How Do I Make the Most of My Parenting Time?
While spending time with your children during supervised visits, there are a few tips you should keep in mind. These are:
- The supervisor isn’t allowed, under the law, to alter or amend court orders. Keep this in mind and don’t request changes during the visits. Follow the provisions of the court order.
- Remember that conflict will negatively affect your child. Try to put any antagonism towards your ex, the court system, or the supervisor to one side. Make sure the visit is fun for your child
- and that you make positive memories together.
- Refrain from making your child into a messenger. Getting involved in the conflict between you and your ex is very unhealthy for your child.
- Most of all, be the best parent you can be to your child during these visits. The most important thing is to spend time with your child, to nurture that parent-child bond.
