The lives of all Americans have drastically changed over the last several weeks. COVID-19 has impacted nearly every part of our society and our pursuits. It has likely impacted your family routines and your relationship with your children’s other parent. If you need help adjusting your custody arrangements or with co-parenting during these unusual times, contact an experienced attorney. There are several tips parents should follow to ensure their co-parenting goes smoothly during the pandemic.
Be Flexible
You and your co-parent may have experienced some extreme changes to your schedule, thanks to the current crisis. Your kids are not going to school, and their other activities have been canceled. One or both of you might be working from home instead of going into the office, you might have lost jobs, or you might be an essential worker who is working more than usual. Whichever scenario applies to you both, if ever there was a time to be flexible, it is now. You may want to compare your current schedules and discuss your desires to find a plan that works for you both.
Obey Court Orders
North Carolina is currently under a stay-at-home order from the governor. However, the order clearly states that nothing in it “shall be construed to preempt or overrule a court order regarding an individual’s conduct.” If you have court orders in place regarding the custody and visitation of your children, you need to continue to adhere to those orders even during the stay-at-home order. Traveling to comply with these orders is considered essential. Also, most courts have stated that parents are to continue with their current custody orders during this time.
Put Your Child’s Health And Well-Being First
Your child’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being should always be your priority when co-parenting, especially during times of uncertainty. This will require different actions depending on your situation. For example, if you have been exposed to COVID-19 or are experiencing its symptoms, do not have physical contact with your child. On the other hand, in this case, the other parent could do what they can to accommodate other forms of communication, such as a phone call or facetime.
You may want to use the stay-at-home order to your advantage to keep your child from their other parent. However, as long as they are following the proper COVID-19 precautions, you could harm your child by doing so. If you have serious health or safety concerns about your child leaving your house and staying with their other parent, first try to discuss it. If you cannot agree, seek legal advice from your Charlotte attorney.
Need Help Co-Parenting During The Pandemic? Reach Out To A Skilled Charlotte Law Firm
We are all navigating these uncertain times together, and our office remains committed to serving your family law needs. Whether you have a question about child custody during the COVID-19 crisis, are concerned about your legal rights, or for your child’s safety, reach out to our office. We can advise you on the next best steps to take.
For your no-obligation consultation from an experienced Charlotte attorney, call Blood Law today at 704.946.8083 or use our convenient online contact form. Someone is available at our office to take your call 24/7.