Domestic Violence and Family Court in Newfoundland and Labrador
How domestic violence may influence custody and parenting decisions in NL.
Understanding Parenting and Custody in Domestic Violence Cases
Parenting and Custody Basics
Custody decisions involve determining where and with whom a child will live and how decisions about the child's welfare are made. Courts focus on the child's best interests, which often include the safety, stability, and well-being of the child. Parenting arrangements may include sole or joint custody, with differing levels of decision-making authority.
Raising Domestic Violence Concerns
When domestic violence is a factor, it can affect custody and visitation decisions. It is important to share concerns about any history or risk of harm with the court or legal professionals involved. These concerns are taken seriously and can influence what arrangements are considered safe and appropriate.
Evidence the Court May Review
The court may consider a variety of evidence when evaluating domestic violence concerns, including:
- Police reports or protective orders
- Statements from witnesses or professionals
- Medical or counseling records relevant to safety
- Any documented history of violence or abuse
When Supervised Parenting May Be Considered
Supervised parenting time may be ordered when there is concern about a child’s safety during visits or exchanges with a parent. In these cases, a neutral third party is present to oversee interactions. This approach aims to maintain the parent-child relationship while addressing safety concerns.
Additional support options can be found through resources listed at DV.Support.