Types of Visitation in Ontario

In Ontario, the legal system recognizes several types of visitation arrangements for non-custodial parents and their children. These arrangements are designed to ensure that the child has an opportunity to maintain a healthy and meaningful relationship with both parents, even after a separation or divorce.

Supervised Visitation: This type of visitation is ordered when the child's safety and well-being require that visits with the non-custodial parent be supervised by another adult or a professional agency. 

Unsupervised Visitation: The most common form of visitation, unsupervised visitation allows the non-custodial parent to spend time with their child without the need for supervision. This arrangement is used when the parents can come to an agreement on visitation schedules and the court believes there is no risk to the child.

Virtual Visitation: An increasingly popular form of visitation, virtual visitation uses technology such as video calls and instant messaging to allow non-custodial parents and their children to communicate. This can be particularly beneficial when geographical distances make in-person visits challenging.

Therapeutic Visitation: This is designed for situations requiring intervention to repair or establish a healthy parent-child relationship. It often involves supervised visits that are conducted in the presence of a mental health professional who provides guidance and support.

Each type of visitation is tailored to the specific needs of the child and the family's circumstances, with the child's best interests at the forefront of any decision.

Can Visitation Type be Changed?

Yes, the type of visitation can be changed if circumstances warrant an adjustment to better serve the child's needs and interests. You’re best to talk to the knowledgeable team at Grant Law when it comes to changing the visitation agreement.  Changes to visitation arrangements can occur due to various reasons, such as a change in the non-custodial parent's living situation, improvements in their ability to care for the child, or significant changes in the child's needs as they grow older.

To modify an existing visitation order, a parent must typically file a motion with the court that originally issued the visitation order. The request for modification will require the parent to demonstrate that there has been a material change in circumstances since the last order was issued and that the proposed change is in the best interest of the child.

The court may require evidence supporting the request and, in some cases, may order an evaluation or seek input from a child welfare expert before making a decision.

When it comes to anything family law related, know that Angela Grant Lee has the experience and expertise to assist you.  Reach out by calling Angela Grant-Lee and her invaluable team are a phone call away at 905-315-6837!