A supervised visitation monitor is a neutral third party who watches and listens during a visit between a non-custodial parent and their child. A judge may order supervised visitation for many reasons, including safety concerns, parental substance use, mental health issues, or when an adult who is not the parent has custody of the child.
The monitor's duties include:
Ensuring the child's safety during the interaction
Intervening if the child is in danger or uncomfortable
Monitoring the safety and welfare of the child
Monitoring any interactions between the child and the parent
Providing a report on the quality of the visits and visit activities
Providing parent coaching
Terminating a visit if they are concerned for the child's well-being
There are two types of supervised visitation monitors: professional and nonprofessional:
Professional
A person with special training who has passed a background check. Professional providers charge a fee and are mandated reporters. They may also be responsible for transporting the children to and from visits.
Nonprofessional
Usually a friend or family member who does not have special training. They are simply there to watch and listen to each visit and do not get paid. Both parents must agree to having a nonprofessional supervise the visit.