The purpose of supervised visitation is to provide a safe and neutral environment for children to have a relationship with parents and is often used in high conflict situations. Many courts take the position that it is better to make an error that protects the child as opposed to leaving a child at risk.

Supervised parenting time may occur in a case if the judge has concerns for the safety or wellbeing of the child.

A judge may determine that supervised parenting time is appropriate for a number of different reasons.

Supervised parenting time may be ordered if there are allegations of, or concerns of, physical violence toward the child or in the presence of the child.

Another reason supervised parenting time may be ordered is if there are concerns that the parent cannot properly care for the child on his or her own or if there are allegations or concerns that the parent is interfering with the relationship of the child with the other parent.

This interference may be caused by negative or condescending comments about the other parent to, or in the presence of, the child.

To prevent this from occurring, the court may order supervised parenting time until the parent shows over a course of time that the concerns are no longer present.