A Judge’s Guide

RECURRING ISSUES
supervision. If domestic violence or child abuse is the reason for the supervision,
friends and family members should not be chosen as supervisors. 20 Some
potential sources for “neutral” supervisors include churches, community groups,
childcare facilities, schools, child protective services, and mental health
professionals. However, at times they are also threatened, so orders must protect
their interests as well.
After the supervisor is selected, he or she must be instructed on how to monitor
the visitation. 21 The order should specifically state the responsibilities of the
supervisor. 22 Copies of the responsibilities and visitation agreement should be
given to the supervisor and both parents. 23
Among the supervisor’s responsibilities, mandated observation notes or regular
communication with the custodial parent should be required. 24 It is important
that the supervisor be willing to communicate about the visit to ensure the child’s
safety. Additionally, the supervisor should be informed about the reason for the
supervision. 25
In many cases, initial visits should be restricted to short, daytime visits in public
places. 26 Provisions that mandate abstinence from alcohol and controlled
substances prior to the visit should be included. 27 Such restrictive provisions
should include notice of the possible consequences that could occur if the
provision is violated. 28 Additionally, perpetrators of domestic violence should be
required to attend a batterer’s intervention program. 29
Finally, the order must include the procedure for visitation exchanges. 30 If
allegations of domestic violence have been raised, the visitation exchange must be
monitored to ensure the safety of the child and the custodial parent. 31
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