Supervised access may be an option for Ontario parents who worry about their safety or if the safety of a child is in question.
For example, a non-custodial parent may have a drug problem or a mental health issue. Having supervised visits allows the non-custodial parent to visit the child while protecting the best interests of the child. Supervised access programs provide neutral areas where the child can be dropped off and returned to the custodial parent. These types of visits are generally appropriate when there is an unresolved conflict between the child’s parents.
It may also be worthwhile to exchange a child in a neutral setting if there are questions as to whether the non-custodial parent is under the influence when around the child. When the safety of the custodial parent is in question, a neutral site exchange may reduce tension. Anyone may ask for supervised access and it may be free of charge.
While there are fees, the program makes use of non-profit groups that keep fees down. A court may order both parents to split the cost or for one party to pay for the entire cost. Fees may also be waived if both parents are unable to pay.
During the visit, staff will monitor the children at all times. Parents who are scared for their safety during an exchange may be escorted to their car by a police officer. Parents who are interested in supervised access may ask a judge on their own or ask their family law representative to make a request for it. If there are any issues between the parents, it may be in the child’s best interest to conduct visits in this manner. Therefore, a judge is likely to grant the request if there is any possibility of harm to the child or to the custodial parent from the non-custodial parent.
Source: Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General, “Supervised Access“, September 16, 2014