Domestic Violence and Quebec Family Court
How domestic violence affects custody and parenting decisions in Quebec.
Parenting and Custody Basics in Domestic Violence Cases
Parenting and Custody Basics
When parents separate, decisions about custody and parenting time are made based on the best interests of the children. This includes who will make important decisions and how much time each parent will spend with the children. Custody arrangements can be joint, where both parents share responsibilities, or sole, where one parent has primary responsibility. Parenting plans are often developed to outline these details.
Raising Domestic Violence Concerns
If domestic violence issues affect parenting or custody, these concerns can be raised with the court. Parents or guardians may bring forward information about safety risks for the child or the parent. Courts take these concerns seriously and consider how they impact the child’s well-being. It is important to share relevant concerns through legal channels or with professionals involved.
Evidence Courts Consider
Court decisions may involve reviewing various types of information, such as:
- Reports from social workers or child protection agencies
- Police or medical records related to domestic violence
- Statements from witnesses or involved parties
- Past court or custody orders
- Any documentation relevant to the child’s safety and welfare
This information helps the court understand the dynamics and make informed decisions.
Supervised Access Possibilities
In some situations, courts may order supervised parenting time. This means a neutral third person is present during visits to help ensure the child’s safety. Supervised access can be arranged through agencies or professionals and is often used when there are significant concerns about safety or well-being.
Additional support options can be found through resources listed at DV.Support.