How To Handle Child Custody and Visitation During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Today I would like to address the topic of the coronavirus and how it is affecting child custody and child visitation orders in place. I have received many phone calls from concerned parents about child custody and visitation during this pandemic. Parents are concerned about transporting children from one household to another and across state lines for their court ordered visitations. There are major differences of opinions between parents as to which household will be the safest place for their children.
The Nevada Family court has recently began prioritizing cases based on emergency cases first. This leaves most parents left to figure out this unprecedented situation without any court intervention. For this reason, it is important for parents to keep a few things in mind:
- First and foremost, remember to always keep the children’s best interest at the forefront of any decisions that are made.
- Secondly, make sure that the children continue to have equal access to both parents as much as possible, even if this includes telephonic contact or virtual contact through FaceTime, Zoom, or whatever means are available to you.
- Try to keep the children’s daily schedules as close to normal as possible. Therapists are informing us that this is one way to minimize the anxiety and the fear that the children might be experiencing during this time.
- Speak to your children about the coronavirus. Explain to them and give them information that is appropriate to their age in a calm and relaxed manner.
- Finally, it is important for both parents to be as flexible as possible during this time.
I have had some issues recently where parents have used the coronavirus pandemic as an opportunity to keep the children away from the other parent. Remember that this does not help the children. The best course of action is always what is in the best interest of the children.
If you are not able to come to an agreement as to a new or temporary visitation schedule, please consult a clergy person or a trusted advisor that can give you help during this time. The most important things is to keep the children safe, and away from fears and anxieties as much as possible. To do so, it’s important and for all parties to try to be as flexible as possible during this time.
If you have questions or concerns regarding how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting your Family Law case, court order, or any other Family Law concern, please do not hesitate to schedule a phone consultation to discuss your situation with our experienced Family Law attorneys. Contact our office at (702) 998-1188, info@ljlawlv.com, or by scheduling a phone consultation online.
For additional information on how the Las Vegas Family Court has been affected by the coronavirus, or information on any general Family Law topic, be sure to check out our Family Law Blog, podcast, and Family Law TV playlist on Youtube.