Domestic Violence and Family Court in Nova Scotia
How domestic violence may influence custody and parenting decisions in Nova Scotia.
Custody and Parenting Time Basics
Understanding Custody and Parenting Time
Custody refers to the legal right to make decisions about a child's upbringing, including education, health, and welfare. Parenting time (sometimes called visitation) is the schedule that allows a parent to spend time with their child. Courts aim to support arrangements that serve the child's best interests, which may involve one or both parents.
Raising Domestic Violence Concerns
If there are concerns related to domestic violence, these may affect custody and parenting time decisions. It is important to share relevant information with the court to address safety considerations for both the child and parents.
Evidence Courts May Consider
Court decisions are often based on various types of evidence, which can include:
- Documentation of incidents or patterns of violence
- Police reports or protective orders
- Statements from involved parties or witnesses
- Evaluations from social workers or child welfare professionals
- Any other relevant information the court deems important
Supervised Visitation Situations
In some cases, courts may order supervised visitation. This means a neutral third party oversees the visits to help ensure the child's safety during interactions with a parent. Such arrangements often occur when there are concerns about domestic violence or other risks.