The coronavirus outbreak is bringing up unique custody issues for divorced families. With schools closed and recommendations to social distance, parenting plans can be disrupted. However, parents with joint custody need to be diligent during this time to ensure their family is kept safe.
How to Share Custody During COVID-19
Because there is still so much unknown information about COVID-19, it is best to take precautionary measures until further notice. With schools shutting down and turning to online courses, children are spending more time at home.
Additionally, social distancing is highly recommended to help stop the spread of COVID-19. This presents a significant problem for parents with shared custody or visitation and has led to divorced families wondering, “How will this affect my child custody order?”
Co-Parenting is Key
Co-parenting can be difficult during this time, but keeping you and your children safe and healthy are the most important thing. Now is the time to implement a strong united front for your children by co-parenting.
Talk to your ex and ask them if they would be willing to discuss alternatives. Express your concerns about leaving the house and the risks that can occur by doing so. When you do this, you are going to have to be willing to compromise. Therefore, you should have solutions as well.
Some potential alternatives can include:
- Opting to video chat
- Giving your ex-spouse extra time with your children when it is safe to do so
If you are on the opposite side of things, and your ex has your children right now, just remember your children’s best interests come first. Keeping them in one place will help keep the risk of spreading coronavirus to not only them but you and other family members in your household.
What to Do If Your Ex Isn’t Cooperating
Co-parenting is the best thing separated, or divorced parents can do for their children. However, it isn’t always the easiest thing for parents to do. If you find that your ex isn’t willing to compromise, speak to an Austin child custody attorney immediately. The top priority right now is your family’s safety, which is Benouis Law is dedicated to protecting you and your child’s best interests.
Have a question about your child custody order? Call Benouis Law today 512-764-3932 or fill out our online contact form to speak to our Austin custody lawyers.