Bill > S894

This bill amends Massachusetts law to prohibit visitation rights for defendants charged or convicted of certain assault, rape, strangulation, or battery offenses against a victim who was pregnant at the time of the crime or has a child in common with the defendant, or where a child was a victim or witness to the crime. The visitation ban would be issued by the criminal court and last until the completion of the defendant's sentence or one year, whichever is shorter. After the ban is lifted, the defendant must complete a psychological evaluation, domestic violence education program, parenting program, and any other required treatment before being allowed visitation through the probate court. The bill also allows the victim, child, or guardian to waive or request the visitation ban, with the court making a determination based on the child's best interests if there is disagreement.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/S894