Supervised Visitation in South Florida: What Parents Need to Know

By: Jarbath Pena Law Group

When families go through divorce or separation, establishing a parenting plan is one of the most sensitive and important parts of the process. In some cases, Florida courts may order supervised visitation—a protective measure designed to ensure a child’s safety and emotional well-being during parental visits.

Whether you are a parent subject to supervised visitation or seeking to request it for your child’s safety, understanding how it works in South Florida is key to navigating your rights and responsibilities.

What Is Supervised Visitation?

Supervised visitation is a court-ordered arrangement that allows a parent to spend time with their child only in the presence of a third party. This neutral party monitors the visit and may provide a report to the court. Supervised visits are often held in a designated supervised visitation center, though they may also occur in a therapist’s office or under the observation of an approved relative.

These visits are structured to ensure safety, build trust, and help maintain the parent-child bond. The purpose is often reunification—helping a parent reestablish or improve a relationship with their child in a safe, guided setting.

When and Why Is Supervised Visitation Ordered?

Florida courts may order supervised visitation for a number of reasons, including:

• Allegations of abuse or neglect

• Substance abuse or addiction

• Untreated mental health issues

• History of domestic violence

• High-conflict parenting or alienation

• Long absence from the child’s life

The court’s focus is always on the best interests of the child. Supervised visitation is typically seen as a temporary solution, not a punishment. It allows the court to assess whether contact between the parent and child can continue safely.

What Happens During a Supervised Visit?

During the visit, the parent and child may engage in normal activities such as playing, reading, or doing homework together. The key is that:

• A neutral supervisor is present at all times

• The parent must follow all rules set by the court or facility

• Discussions are to remain appropriate and focused on the child

Supervisors are trained to intervene if conversations or behavior become inappropriate or upsetting. Visits are scheduled at set times, typically lasting 1–2 hours.

How Supervised Visits Are Reported to the Court

Supervised visitation centers or professional supervisors often keep detailed records. These reports typically include:

• The date and duration of each visit

• Whether the parent arrived on time and complied with rules

• The quality of the interaction (warmth, engagement, communication)

• Any concerns or incidents that occurred

  
  

These reports are submitted to the court and may influence future decisions about parenting time. Positive reports can lead to modifications of the order—potentially moving from supervised to unsupervised visitation.

The Cost of Supervised Visitation

In South Florida, supervised visitation at a professional center can range from $40 to $100 per hour or more, depending on the location and type of supervision. Some centers offer sliding scale fees. When a family member is the court-approved supervisor, there is typically no cost—but this arrangement must be explicitly authorized by the judge.

Costs for therapeutic or professional supervision are generally the responsibility of the parent exercising visitation, unless otherwise ordered by the court.

Temporary Nature of Supervised Visitation

Supervised visitation is rarely permanent. In most cases, it's intended to be a stepping stone toward unsupervised parenting time. As the visiting parent demonstrates consistency, compliance, and improvement, the court may reduce restrictions. If the case is still open, this type of change can often be made relatively easily.

If the case is already closed, a parent will need to show a substantial change in circumstances to request a modification. This is a higher legal standard but not an uncommon process.

Can Supervised Visitation Be Modified?

Yes. If the parent shows progress—such as attending all scheduled visits, complying with court orders, and maintaining appropriate behavior—they can request a modification. A judge will review:

• Reports from supervisors

• Testimony or affidavits

• Any completed court-ordered programs (e.g., therapy, parenting classes)

  
  

If the other parent objects, a hearing may be scheduled where both sides present evidence. In many cases, especially during reunification efforts, the court gradually moves toward increased access or unsupervised visits.

Tips for Parents Participating in Supervised Visitation

For the visiting parent:

• Arrive on time and stay positive

• Avoid discussing legal matters or making promises you can’t keep

• Bring appropriate games or activities

• Follow all court and supervisor rules

• Treat the visits as a chance to rebuild trust and demonstrate growth

For the custodial parent:

• Communicate respectfully and cooperatively

• Avoid coaching the child or speaking negatively about the other parent

• Keep a log of visits and interactions

• Be open to change if progress is shown

  
  

Let Us Help Guide You

Whether you are requesting supervised visitation or seeking to modify a current order, it’s important to have a trusted legal team by your side. At Jarbath Peña Law Group, we help South Florida parents navigate family law matters with compassion, strategy, and a focus on what matters most—your child’s well-being.

📞 Call us at 305-615-1005 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and protect your parenting rights.