On behalf of Stange Law Firm, PC posted in Child Custody on Friday, January 5, 2018.
If there are serious questions about an Illinois parent’s ability to look after their child, a judge may order supervised visitation. This generally means that the person can only spend time with their kids in a controlled setting under the watchful eye of a social worker or another family member. These visits may take place either in a public setting or at the home of another family member.
Supervised visitation may be beneficial for both the parent and child. For the child, it provides an opportunity to interact with a parent in a safe and structured manner. For the adult, it provides an opportunity to maintain a relationship and improve as a parent. Depending on the facts of the case, supervised visitation may occur either temporarily or on a permanent basis.
In most cases, supervised visitation ends when a parent convinces a judge that they have successfully rehabilitated. This may come after completing drug rehab or after an investigation into allegations of abuse or neglect is complete. Parents who are under investigation for any reason should be as cooperative as possible. Doing so may help to establish that they are fit to be a parent.
In a custody case, the best interest of the child is generally the top priority. Therefore, parents will often benefit from thinking about their children when making custody decisions. Those who are looking to obtain parental or custody rights might also benefit by talking to an attorney. This may help a parent understand the legal process and what a judge is looking for.
