The Florida court presumes that it is in a child’s best interest to maintain a relationship with both parents after a divorce. However, there may be certain situations where it is not in the child’s best interest for them to spend time alone with one parent. In these situations, the court may order supervised timesharing, which can take many forms. The experienced family law attorneys at the Law Offices of David L. Hirschberg in Boca Raton are here to help you navigate this difficult issue. For more information, call or contact us today.
When is Supervised Timesharing Ordered?
Supervised timesharing is typically ordered when it is determined that the child’s health and safety may be at risk if they spend time alone with a parent. It may also be ordered in certain situations where it is impossible for a parent and child to spend time unsupervised together. If there is a family history of child abuse, neglect, domestic violence, or child kidnapping, supervised timesharing may be ordered. It may also be appropriate if the court is concerned about a parent’s physical and emotional wellbeing. If a parent struggles with untreated mental illness issues or substance abuse problems, the court may determine that supervised timesharing is in the child’s best interest.
Common Types of Supervised Timesharing
There are many different types of supervised timesharing available that may be ordered depending on the specific details of each child-related case. The most common types of supervised timesharing in Florida include the following:
One-on-one timesharing
This is the most common type of supervised timesharing, where a parent and child are supervised by a qualified third party. This person may be a social worker or other qualified person. It may also be a friend or family member with approval by the court.
Group timesharing
Group timesharing occurs when multiple pairs of parents and children are monitored by one or more supervisors at the same time. This type of supervised timesharing is most appropriate when parents are at a detention center or group home.
Therapeutic timesharing
This type of supervised timesharing is most appropriate when the parent/child relationship is particularly strained. The supervisor monitoring the interaction between parent and child is also a licensed therapist, psychologist, or other mental health professional that can provide counseling if the need arises.
Phone and video monitoring
Phone and video monitoring is a form of supervised timesharing that allows one parent to monitor the communication between the child and the other parent. This type of timesharing is usually ordered when one parent is incarcerated or lives a substantial distance away that precludes other forms of supervised timesharing.
Neutral child exchange
A neutral child exchange is not technically a form of supervised timesharing but is often utilized in conjunction with supervised timesharing when there are problems between parents. A neutral third party transports the child between parental visits to avoid problems.
Call or Contact Us Today
Supervised timesharing can seem complex, but the knowledgeable Boca Raton family attorneys at the Law Offices of David L. Hirschberg are here to help. Call the office or contact us today to schedule a consultation.
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