The Department of Child Protection and Permanency (DCPP) does not always remove children from their homes if their parents are under investigation, but it is does happen sometimes. Parents who have their children taken from them may feel like they will never see them again, but that’s not the case. Fortunately, the DCPP recognizes the importance of visitations between out-of-home children and parents.
The Benefits of Visitations Between Children and Parents
Children need stability in their lives, and being taken from their home certainly does not provide it. But, out-of-home children can establish some stability and consistency in their lives with regular visitations with their parents. Regular visitations can also help children maintain a relationship with their parents. Even though the DCPP has removed the child from his home, they still understand the importance of visitations.
Some children have a hard time adjusting to life in their new home. Visitations can remind these children that their parents are still in their lives and committed to them.
During visitations, parents have the opportunity to show that they are willing and capable of parenting their children. The party that is supervising the visitation can take note of this, which could affect the outcome of the parent’s case.
Visitations benefit the parents, too. Parents can learn new parenting skills during these visitations simply by watching the supervisor interact with the children. This can help them become better parents so they can reunite with their children.
How Often Can Parents Visit Out-of-Home Children?
The frequency and duration of visitations varies on a case-by-case basis. A number of factors are considered when determining how to schedule visitations, including the case goal and purpose of the visits. The DCPP typically finds that children and parents can benefit the most from long and frequent visitations if the end goal is to reunite the family.
Parents will not be left in the dark when it comes to visitations with their children. The DCPP involves parents in the process of creating the visitation plan, which means they can voice their opinions and fight for as much time as possible with their children.
Are you involved in a DCPP investigation? If so, contact Williams Law Group, LLC right away. Our skilled attorneys understand the importance of visitations, and we will stand by your side and protect your rights as a parent through every step of the investigation. Call our office at (908) 810-1083, email us at info@awilliamslawgroup.com, or contact us through our confidential online form to schedule a consultation.