This is the final post in a series of articles discussing common issues that arise when parents seek to require supervised visitation between their co-parent and child. My previous post discussed the termination of one’s parental rights after they have been subjected to a supervised visitation order. Given the significance and permanence of such a decision, parental rights are terminated only in extreme circumstances. When a parent fears for the safety of their child, they are willing to go to great lengths to protect them. If their co-parent poses a risk, supervised visitation may be necessary to keep the child safe. The objectives of this series have been to explain how and when requests for supervised visitation may be granted and other common issues that arise in such cases. If you need assistance with a child custody or visitation issue, contact my office to schedule a consultation.
This series addressed the following subject:
- The circumstances under which the Court will order supervised visitation
- Proving one’s case for supervised visitation
- Making false claims in an effort to win supervised visitation
- Proceeding to terminate parental rights after supervised visitation has already been ordered
Sharing custody of a child can pose a variety of challenges, including disagreements about child rearing. When the disagreements are about extreme risks to the safety and health of one’s child, however, it may be necessary to request that a parent’s access to the child be supervised. Those considering this option should understand the topics addressed in this series for several reasons. First, the Court will only mandate supervised visitation when one-on-one time between the parent and child poses a serious risk to the child’s well-being. Circumstances such as risk of physical or emotional abuse, exposure to dangerous or illegal activity, or extreme neglect, must be present to justify such requests. Second, requests for supervised visitation must be based on objective evidence that the risk to the child actually exists. Unfounded claims based on suspicion or rumors will not be enough to justify action from the Court. Third, whether driven by revenge, an attempt to get leverage in court, or by desperation, it is not uncommon for one parent to make false claims about the other’s behavior. When allegations are untrue, it is imperative to take them seriously and defend against them. It is never a good idea to submit false statements to the Court and doing so may negatively impact the accuser’s parental rights. Finally, under certain circumstances, a parent may find it necessary to request the termination of their co-parent’s rights relative to the child. Doing so legally ends the parent-child relationship. The Court scrutinizes all such requests and will only approve them in extreme circumstances. Working with an experienced child custody attorney can help you understand this process.
I am a Las Vegas family lawyer with experience representing families in supervised visitation matters. I take pride in helping my clients resolve their disputes through the legal process. If you need assistance, contact my office to schedule a consultation.