As an experienced family law attorney in Texas, I know visitation can get messy—especially when circumstances call for supervised visitation. Elliot had been through some rough times but had stabilized his life when he called me.
“Chris, things are great. I’m pretty much back to normal. Steady job, sober for three years, and that bad thing I did—crashing through that window at the candy shop—is far behind me. It’s still on my record, but it’s not haunting me anymore,” Elliot told me.
“So what’s next?”
“That’s the thing. I’m really starting to miss my son, and I’m hoping I can get him back in my life.”
“Have you spoken to his mother?” I asked.
“Not yet. I want to make sure I know what’s ahead of me before I speak to her. I want to show her I’m informed and acting in a mature manner.”
“That sounds mature to me. Do you know how much you want him in your life?”
“I don’t want custody or anything, I just want to be able to see him once in a while—maybe take him bowling or to a ball game.”
“I think we can arrange that. Have you heard about supervised visitation? It may be the place to start.”
“No, but it sounds like visitation with somebody else there to make sure the kid is okay,” he said.
“Basically, but there’s a lot more to it. Would you be interested in going over our supervised visitation guide for Texas?”
“That sounds like exactly what I need. Let’s do it.”
Supervised Visitation in Texas: A Safe First Step
When families face difficult child custody cases, like Elliot’s, one solution for Texas courts is to sometimes order supervised visitation. This ensures the child’s safety while still allowing the parent-child relationship to continue. At Warren & Migliaccio, we’ve guided many families in North Texas through these challenges with compassion and skill.
Supervised visitation acts like a middle ground between no contact and regular visitation. We know this process can feel daunting, so we’re here to help you understand your choices and strive for the best outcome for your child.
What Is Supervised Visitation in Texas?
Definition Under Texas Law
Supervised visitation is a court-ordered arrangement where a parent spends time with their child under the supervision of a neutral third party. It’s different from standard visitation orders because these visits happen in a controlled environment with clear safety rules. The neutral supervisor can be a professional or someone approved by the court, and the goal is to protect the child while following the court’s orders.
Texas Family Code Chapter 153 addresses these arrangements. It gives judges a lot of power to keep children safe while still trying to maintain family bonds whenever possible.
Primary Goals of Supervised Visitation
In our experience, supervised visitation has several key aims:
- Ensuring child safety: The top priority is always guarding against potential harm.
- Maintaining parent-child bonds: Even under tough circumstances, the connection between a parent and child can still have value.
- Creating controlled environments: Visits take place in safe locations with proper monitoring.
- Supporting future progress: Many visits can lead to unsupervised visits later if things go well.
Who Can Serve as a Supervisor?
Texas courts can approve different types of supervisors based on each family’s needs:
- Professional supervisors at visitation centers
- Trusted family member or friends
- Court-appointed monitors
- Mental health professionals
We often help families figure out which supervisor fits their specific circumstances and meets the court’s rules.
When Do Texas Courts Order Supervised Visitation?
Domestic Violence History
Texas courts take domestic violence very seriously. If there was violence in the past two years, judges often decide on supervised visits. Even older incidents might matter, especially if protective orders are on file. Courts need strong evidence of threats or harm, and our legal team helps families gather the documents to protect their children.
Substance Abuse Concerns
Drug addiction or alcohol problems often lead to supervised visitation orders. Common examples include:
- Active substance use
- Failed drug tests
- DUI or DWI convictions
- Worries about impaired judgment during visits
Judges usually wait to see sustained recovery or ongoing treatment before considering unsupervised visitation.
Child Abuse or Neglect
If a child has been harmed or neglected, courts prioritize safety first. This may involve:
- Physical abuse claims
- Emotional abuse patterns
- Past Child Protective Services involvement
- Criminal charges linked to children
Rebuilding trust can take time and consistent positive interaction under watchful supervision.
Mental Health Issues
Untreated mental health issues can affect a parent’s ability to care for a child. Courts look at:
- Diagnosed conditions that influence judgment
- Refusal to get treatment
- Trouble following medication plans
- Results of risk assessments
We help families address these problems while keeping everyone safe.
Risk of Abduction
Some parents might be a flight risk, leading to a supervised visitation order. Red flags include:
- International custody disputes
- Prior abduction attempts
- Weak community ties
- Threats to leave with the child
Types of Supervised Visitation Arrangements
Professional Supervised Visitation Centers
In Texas, most supervised visits occur in supervised visitation centers. These facilities provide a controlled environment with trained staff, security cameras, and areas designed for kids.
- Controlled environment with trained staff, security cameras, and areas designed for kids
- Structured activities like toys, games, and outdoor play with staff helping facilitate parent-child interactions
- Detailed notes on each visit, including any concerns or potential risks
Sometimes visits take place in a therapist’s office or another safe location, based on the court’s decision and child’s best interests.
Professional Monitor Services
Some families choose one-on-one supervision with a professional monitor. Benefits include:
- Flexible scheduling
- More natural setting for the visit
- Personalized focus on family’s needs
- Thorough reports for the court
This option may be more expensive but can offer added privacy and convenience.
Family Member or Friend Supervision
Courts can allow a reliable family member or friend to supervise if:
- The person passes court approval
- They can remain neutral
- They can keep the child safe
- They will report issues honestly to the court
We help families with the paperwork needed for these arrangements.
Therapeutic Supervised Visitation
When families need more support, courts may order therapeutic visitation, which combines:
- Professional counseling during the visit
- Family therapy methods
- Parenting skill-building
- Steps toward reunification
The Supervised Visitation Process in Texas
Initial Court Order
A court order for supervised visitation normally includes:
- Reasons for requiring supervision
- How long the arrangement will last
- Any service providers or supervisor qualifications
- Rules and limits on what can happen during visits
We explain these orders to families and help them make a plan to follow the court-ordered arrangement.
Intake Process
Before visits start, there’s usually an intake process that can include:
- Background checks for parents and supervisors
- An orientation that explains the rules
- Fee agreements and payment schedules
- A first meeting to assess the situation
This can take a few weeks to complete.
Visitation Rules and Guidelines
Most visitation services have strict rules:
- Arrival procedures: Parents often arrive separately to avoid conflict. Being late can shorten or cancel the visit.
- Acceptable activities: Reading, playing games, and supervised outdoor time are common. Physical contact is often limited to quick hugs or hand-holding.
- Prohibited behaviors: No talking about the court case, criticizing the other parent, or private communication outside approved channels.
- Gift policies: Centers may limit gifts or require approval. Food is often supplied on-site.
Supervisor’s Role and Responsibilities
The supervisor’s role is critical. They:
- Watch all parent-child interactions
- Write down behaviors, conversations, or concerns
- Step in if there’s a potential harm to the child
- Provide the court with detailed visit reports
Professional supervisors typically go through special training and continuing education.
Costs and Financial Considerations
Typical Fee Structures
Costs for supervised visitation vary by region but often include: Hourly fees: $40–100 per hour
- Intake fees: $100–300 for initial setup
- Late fee: $25–50 for missed visits or being late
- Report fees: $50–150 for court papers
Each supervised visitation program in Texas may have varying fees and requirements based on the specific provider. Urban areas like Dallas or Houston tend to charge higher fees than smaller counties.
Texas Supervised Visitation Cost Calculator
Estimate your supervised visitation expenses based on typical Texas rates
Estimated Costs
Who Pays for Supervised Visitation?
- Usually, the visiting parent pays the bill. However, the court also considers: Each parent’s income and resources
- The reason supervision is needed
- Whether paying causes serious hardship
- Existing child support duties
In Texas, the non-custodial parent typically bears the financial responsibility for supervised visitation fees. Sometimes courts split costs if both parents share responsibility or if one parent has financial challenges.
Financial Assistance Options
Families who are struggling may get help from:
- Sliding-scale programs based on income
- County-funded services in some locations
- Non-profit groups with reduced fees
- Office of the Attorney General resources for qualifying families
The Office of the Attorney General funds several programs for supervised visitation services in Texas. We guide families to these resources when needed.
Major Supervised Visitation Centers in Texas
Dallas-Fort Worth Providers
- Dallas County Family Court Services has several places with fees adjusted by income for those needing to access family law court services.
- Tarrant counties have centers in Fort Worth and nearby areas with both on-site and off-site options.
- Private providers around DFW offer specialized programs for unique family circumstances.
Wichita & Wise County Providers
- Wichita Falls–based services such as Abigail’s Family Monitoring Services and BBA Family Monitoring Services deliver professional, court-approved supervision across Wichita County and nearby rural areas, offering flexible scheduling and detailed visit reports.
- XPD Investigation Co. serves Wise County (Decatur, Bridgeport) along with surrounding counties, providing supervised visitation and monitored exchanges with individualized service plans.
- Families in both counties can also call the Texas Access & Visitation Hotline (866-292-4636) for low-cost or sliding-scale referrals and additional county resources.
Houston Area Providers
- Harris County Supervised Visitation Services offers affordable visits with trained staff and thorough reporting.
- Private centers around the Houston area have flexible hours and focus on high-conflict situations.
- Many locations offer bilingual help for Houston’s diverse community.
Austin and Travis County Options
Central Texas has:
- Travis County supervised visitation programs that run evenings and weekends
- Non-profit groups with sliding-scale fees
- Therapeutic visitation that blends family therapy and supervised contact
San Antonio Services
In Bexar County:
- County-run programs offer affordable rates and bilingual staff
- Private centers with flexible scheduling and special services
- Court-linked options that share reports directly with judges
Legal Rights and Responsibilities
Non-Custodial Parent’s Rights
A non-custodial parent with supervised visitation still has important rights:
- Regular contact with their child
- Due process in court
- The ability to ask for changes when circumstances change
- Access to reports about the visits
We work hard to protect these rights and help parents work toward more time with their children.
Custodial Parent’s Rights
The custodial parent also has specific protections:
- Confidence that the child’s safety comes first
- A say in picking a supervisor if it’s reasonable
- Access to detailed reports about the visits
- The option to seek quick action if safety is in danger
Balancing everyone’s rights requires careful legal work.
Child’s Rights and Considerations
Texas law focuses on the child’s best interests:
- Firstly, visits that suit the child’s age
- Considering child’s wishes if they’re 12 or older
- Shielding them from emotional harm
- Lastly, encouraging a healthy parent-child bond when safe
Source: Case and Client Statistical Analysis 2021.pdf
Modifying or Ending Supervised Visitation
Grounds for Modification
Supervised visitation is often temporary. Courts may change orders when parents show:
- Firstly, completion of therapy or treatment programs
- Also, sustained sobriety and passing drug tests
- Consistently positive supervised visits
- Lastly, new information that lowers safety concerns
In Texas, any modification requires a case by case assessment looking for significant change and court approval.
The Modification Process
To adjust or remove supervision, you generally need to:
- Firstly, file the right motions, backed by proof of changed circumstances.
- Gather documents like treatment certificates, therapy records, and supervisor notes.
- Also, present your case in a hearing, where both parents can share their views.
- Likewise, work with an experienced family law attorney who understands the legal steps.
Transitioning to Unsupervised Visits
This usually happens in stages:
- Firstly, longer supervised visits to show the parent’s progress
- Also, short unsupervised visits with extra monitoring
- Gradually more unsupervised time
- Finally, a final order ending supervision
Courts monitor these steps closely to ensure the child’s welfare.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Scheduling Conflicts
Many families have trouble finding time for visits:
- Work conflicts: Seek weekend or evening slots at centers that offer flexible hours.
- Distance issues: Consider halfway meeting points or local supervisors.
- Holidays: Plan early and get court approval for special schedules.
Communication Issues
High-conflict cases need structured communication:
- Firstly, use the visitation center for neutral exchange
- Also, stick to court-approved contact methods
- Do not pull children into adult disputes
- Finally, keep detailed records for court
Over time, these steps often reduce conflict.
Compliance Concerns
If a parent fails to follow the court order:
- Firstly, visits might end early or get canceled
- Also, the court can find that parent in contempt
- Thorough records protect the other parent and child
- Likewise, the court may boost supervision or adjust arrangements
Child and Family Visitation Best Practice Guide:
For more information on child and family visitation best practices in Texas, please see DFPS Child and Family Visitation Best Practice Guide.
Working with Family Law Attorneys
When to Seek Legal Advice
Legal help is important when you face:
- Firstly, new or potential supervised visitation arrangement
- Also, a need to modify existing orders
- Violations or enforcement problems
- Lastly, complicated custody conflicts
Early guidance often leads to better results.
Choosing the Right Attorney
Look for someone who has:
- Firstly, solid background in child custody cases and supervised visitation
- Also, familiarity with local court rules and judges
- Transparent fees and payment options
- Lastly, strong communication skills
At Warren & Migliaccio, these qualities guide how we serve North Texas families.
Legal Aid Resources
If you have limited money, you can reach out to:
- Texas Legal Aid groups
- Pro bono programs from local bar associations
- Court-appointed lawyers in certain cases
- Self-help materials at county law libraries
- How to choose the right attorney—a guide to help you select qualified legal counsel in Texas
Resources and Support
Texas Access and Visitation Hotline
This state hotline offers phone advice on visitation rights and custody, names of local supervised visitation providers, educational tools on Texas family law, and bilingual help in Spanish. The Texas Access and Visitation Hotline provides free phone access to parenting time specialists.
- Firstly, phone advice on visitation rights and custody
- Also, names of local supervised visitation providers
- Educational tools on Texas family law
- Likewise, bilingual help in Spanish
Online Resources
- TexasLawHelp.org: Free legal info and forms for family law issues
- Attorney General’s website: Info on child support and visitation
- County websites: Lists of local supervised visitation providers and fees
Educational Programs
Many families find help through:
- Firstly, parenting classes that address high-conflict situations
- Co-parenting workshops
- Also, anger management or substance abuse treatment
- Lastly, support groups focused on emotional well-being
Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Supervised Visitation
What is supervised visitation in Texas?
It’s a court-ordered arrangement where a noncustodial parent spends time with their child under a neutral third party’s watch.
Why it’s required: To safeguard the child’s safety and child’s well-being if there’s domestic violence, substance abuse, or past neglect.
Legal basis: Guided by Texas Family Code Chapter 153, which gives judges the power to protect children while still allowing a parent-child relationship when possible.
When do Texas courts order supervised visitation?
Courts use supervision when there’s evidence of potential risks to the child, like domestic violence within the past two years, substance abuse, or child abuse and neglect.
Other factors: Criminal history, ongoing mental health issues, or ignoring previous visitation orders.
Primary goal: Keep kids safe while preserving the parent-child bond, if it’s possible.
How does supervised visitation work?
These visits happen in a controlled environment (often a supervised visitation center or other approved spot) where a supervisor observes every interaction.
Check-in/check-out: Each parent arrives and leaves at different times or entrances.
Activities: Supervisors watch reading, games, and crafts.
Documentation: Supervisors record behaviors, talk, and compliance for any future court review.
How much does supervised visitation cost in Texas?
Expect $40–$100 per hour, plus $100–$300 in intake process fees. Reports can cost $50–$150.
Variations: Big cities like Dallas or Houston charge more than smaller places.
Additional fees: Tardiness or missed visits may add a late fee of $25–$50.
Financial help: Some facilities use sliding scales tied to income, and some counties offer subsidized services.
Who pays for supervised visitation?
Typically, the visiting parent covers these costs, but the court can split fees based on finances or why supervision was ordered.
Considerations: If the custodial parent also caused the need for supervision, or if the visiting parent can’t afford it, a judge might adjust who pays.
Payment issues: If you don’t pay, the visits might be canceled or lead to more court action.
Can supervised visitation be overnight in Texas?
Yes, but it’s not very common. Courts only allow overnight visits if they’re confident it won’t endanger the child.
Extra safeguards: May need a professional monitor or fully vetted relative.
Court factors: The child’s age, the supervised parent’s progress, and how well they’ve followed rules.
How long does supervised visitation typically last?
Supervised visitation usually runs from 6 months to 2 years, with check-ins every 6–12 months.
Case-dependent: In serious domestic violence or substance abuse situations, judges may want 12–18 months of documented improvement.
Goal: Supervision is often temporary, aiming for normal visitation once concerns ease.
How do I modify or remove supervised visitation orders?
You must file a motion to modify and show a “significant change in circumstances,” such as completing treatment or having positive supervisor reports.
Key steps: Meet all court requirements (counseling, classes, etc.).
Collect proof (clean drug tests, compliance documents).
Attend a court hearing to show the child’s best interest is served by changes.
Expect a gradual approach: from longer supervised visits to short unsupervised sessions before fully ending supervision.
What happens if the visiting parent violates supervised visitation rules?
Violations can cause the visit to end right away, lead to suspension of visitation rights, or contempt of court.
Minor infractions: Might get warnings.
Serious consequences: Physical aggression or trying to leave with the child can stop visits for a long time.
Documentation: Supervisors report violations to the court, which may strengthen restrictions.
Violations of supervised visitation rules can cause the visit to end right away, lead to suspension of visitation rights, or contempt of court
What if my child refuses to attend supervised visits?
Courts usually expect children to attend unless there’s a proven safety issue or other big concern.
Child’s age & preference: If the child is 12 or older, the court gives more weight to what they want.
Possible solutions: Counseling for the child, a different supervisor, or changing the visit location.
Parental influence: Judges watch out for any parent encouraging a child not to attend, which can affect custody decisions.
Can friends or family members supervise visits?
Yes. Texas courts sometimes allow a friend or trusted family member to act as supervisor if they meet specific requirements:
Firstly, pass background checks
Secondly, remain neutral
Also, keep the child safe
Lastly, give the court honest reports
If there’s high conflict or doubt about neutrality, courts might insist on professional supervision.
Where can I find supervised visitation centers or free/low-cost options in Texas?
Many counties, non-profits, and the Attorney General’s website have details:
Dallas-Fort Worth: Dallas County Family Court Services and private centers
Houston: Harris County Supervised Visitation Services
Austin: Travis County evening/weekend programs and non-profits
San Antonio: Bexar County programs with bilingual staff
Wichita County: Abigail’s Family Monitoring Services (downtown Wichita Falls) and BBA Family Monitoring Services, which also serves Archer, Clay, Wilbarger, Montague, and Young counties
Wise County: XPD Investigation Co. offers supervised visitation and monitored exchanges for Wise and surrounding counties
Texas Access and Visitation Hotline: (866) 292-4636 for referrals
Some free or low-cost services have waiting lists, so sign up early.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Supervised visitation helps protect children while preserving the parent-child relationship during tough times. Although it can feel stressful, these orders often guide families toward healing and, when appropriate, a move to unsupervised visits.
At Warren & Migliaccio, we know every family is different. We’ve assisted many North Texas families dealing with supervised visitation while fostering hope and respect. Whether you’re facing a new visitation case, seeking changes, or managing compliance challenges, having a Texas child custody lawyer on your side can make a real difference.
Keep in mind supervised visitation is usually not permanent. With patience, dedication, and the right support, most families work toward more typical visitation arrangements. Focus on what’s best for your child and keep working toward your goals.
If you’re dealing with supervised visitation in North Texas, you don’t have to do it alone. Call our law firm to talk about your situation and figure out your next steps. We’re ready to help you protect your family’s future.
What Will Elliot Do?
“You sure covered a lot. It feels like I have plenty of options. I feel like I can handle normal visitation right away. I’m clean, sober, have some money, and I’m not a threat to my son. I’m ready, but I don’t want to act entitled or anything. I learned that in recovery.”
“That’s a great point. I don’t doubt you’re ready. But perhaps it’s best to take it slow—step by step. Within a year or so, maybe less, you should be able to take him to that ball game,” I told him.
“So what should we do?” he asked.
“If you can be patient, I’d suggest you talk to his mother, let her know just what you told me—but also that you want to ease into visitation so that everybody is comfortable and so that you can rebuild the trust you probably damaged.”
“I can understand that. What else?”
“Tell her you’re going to request supervised visitation. Maybe tell her she can help set the boundaries—how supervised she wants it to be. Be very respectful of her concerns.”
“That sounds fair, I guess, but for how long?”
“That’s my next point. Also, be firm. Tell her you intend to prove to her, your son, and the court if necessary, that within a year, you can have regular visitation rights and have your son spend a couple of weekends a month with you—if that’s what you want.”
“Even one weekend would be cool.”
“Great. Then tell her that—but say one weekend a month to start. You might want more later. Just take it gradually. She might even like the arrangement if you play your cards right,” I told him.
“What about the legal side of this?” he asked.
Next Steps: From Hope to a Visitation Plan
“Your job is to document everything you told me. We may need proof of steady employment and your sobriety. If you can provide that, I’ll handle the rest. It’s standard procedure, and I can get the paperwork in motion. But first, we need to assess how cooperative—or uncooperative—his mother might be.”
“Sounds great, Chris. I’ll talk to her and get back to you. I think she’ll be open to our gradual approach to getting my son back into my life. In the meantime, I’ll visualize us at the ball game until it’s reality.”
Schedule a Consultation With Our Firm to Learn About Supervised Visitation in Texas
Wondering about supervised visitation in Texas can be stressful and challenging, but you do not have to face it alone. Our team of experienced Dallas family attorneys is ready to provide you with the guidance, support, and legal advocacy you need during these challenging times.
Whether you are wondering about supervised visitation, or navigating other child custody related issues, we are here to help you every step of the way. We welcome you to schedule a consultation to discuss your situation and case objectives. We can answer your legal questions and discuss how we can help you move forward. Call our law office at (888) 584-9614 or contact us online to schedule your consultation.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every family law situation is unique, and outcomes depend on the specific circumstances of each case. Talk with an experienced family law attorney to discuss your situation and legal choices.
