In the absence of a criminal conviction, if the court finds by a preponderance of the evidence that a parent has sexually abused a child, the court shall prohibit all visitation and contact between that parent and the child, until it considers testimony from a certified mental health professional who is the therapist for the child, as to whether such a custodial, residential or visitation arrangement is in the child’s best interests. If a custodial, residential or visitation arrangement is in the child’s best interests, in determining same, the court should consider all relevant factors including:

(1) Whether the abusive parent has successfully completed a treatment program of evaluation and counseling that is specifically designed for sexual abusers and is conducted by a public or private agency or a certified mental health professional, and as a result, does not pose a risk to children;

(2) Whether the abusive parent has successfully completed a program of alcohol or drug abuse counseling if the court determines such counseling is appropriate; and

(3) Any testimony by a certified mental health professional who is the therapist for the sexually abusive parent.

76 Del. Laws, c. 174, § ?6;

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Terms Used In Delaware Code Title 13 Sec. 726A

  • Child: means a person who has not reached the age of 18 years. See Delaware Code Title 1 Sec. 302
  • Conviction: A judgement of guilt against a criminal defendant.
  • Evidence: Information presented in testimony or in documents that is used to persuade the fact finder (judge or jury) to decide the case for one side or the other.
  • Testimony: Evidence presented orally by witnesses during trials or before grand juries.