Tips for Co-Parenting Amid the Pandemic
In spite of the current stay-at-home orders issued throughout the country, parents are still obligated to uphold child custody and visitation orders. Although parents face unprecedented challenges during this pandemic, there are still several things they will need to consider in order to comply with their court-ordered custody arrangements.
Practice Honest Communication
Having open communication with the other parent can make co-parenting much easier in an already challenging time. Through open communication, parents can help each other ensure that their child’s health and wellbeing during the pandemic is protected. Parents can discuss boundaries when it comes to complying with all Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. This can include the following:
- Respecting the need to practice social distancing,
- Keeping each other informed if someone in their household becomes ill, and
- Having a plan set in place in the event that the child contracts COVID-19
Complying with Court-Ordered Arrangements
Custody orders and visitation arrangements are primarily set in place to help the child obtain a stable home, but they are also ordered to help parents reach an agreement about who the child will reside with. Amid the coronavirus pandemic, upholding these arrangements can become difficult, especially if the parents’ work schedules have been disrupted. Nonetheless, court-ordered arrangements need to be upheld, and failing to do so can have serious consequences.
Be Flexible Amid the Pandemic
Like many other groups of people across the world, the coronavirus pandemic has introduced a variety of challenges and difficulties in a parent’s life. When a parent cannot comply with the child custody arrangement, it is critical to remain flexible. A parent who refuses to work with the other during times of hardship may be seen negatively if the case is brought to court. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that the pandemic has brought about a wide-variety of changes for the child as well. Making sure that the child is not subjected to unnecessary quarrels between the parents can help prevent unnecessary anxiety and confusion for the child.
Speak to Compassionate Law Firm
Regrettably, upholding one’s responsibilities during the COVID-19 outbreak does not ensure that the other party will do the same. Recognizing that the courts have limited their services during this time, some parents will attempt to take advantage of this and obstruct the other party’s parental rights. If this is your situation, you should act immediately and seek the legal support of a skilled law firm. Although family law courts have limited the cases they will hear at this time, it is still possible to enforce a custody order. In some cases, a new custody order will be set. Contact the legal support of a knowledgeable law firm that can help you navigate the complex legal process.
The family law attorneys at Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP are experienced and compassionate attorneys. The firm understands that COVID-19 has caused a great deal of upheaval for many families across the nation. When challenges become too dire, it is critical to seek the legal support of a trusted law firm that can protect one’s rights and interests. Consider contacting the legal support of the attorneys at Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Stephen Levine, is a Board Certified Specialist in Criminal Defense — an honor achieved by only the top criminal law attorneys in California. Mr. Levine has over 40 years of experience in criminal defense and family law serving Southern California, and is a highly regarded Super Lawyer as well as AV Rated attorney.