Child Custody Concerns During the Pandemic Summer

Child holding teddy bear and parents arguing

As we’ve discussed before, the pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus has upended many aspects of life throughout the United States, and issues related to family law are no exception. As the summer months quickly approach, many parents who share custody of their children are wondering what their summer schedules will look like and how the pandemic may affect their plans.

While it is too early to say with absolute certainty, it looks like many aspects of Coronavirus response will extend through the summer into the fall, which may mean a different summer than the one you had planned earlier this year. In addition, the lockdowns imposed by many municipalities may have an impact on your child custody arrangement, and it’s important to make sure that you are doing everything you can to stay in compliance with your court order.

Here are some child custody issues to consider as we head into the hot North Carolina summer.

You May Want To Revisit Your Child Custody Arrangement

Some child custody orders significantly change during the summer months while school is out of session. Many parents plan for varied custody schedules because of issues like sleep-away camp or annual family trips that require a departure from your regular custody arrangement.

Parents who share custody should work together and discuss how the current crisis will affect their plans and whether modifications to their custody arrangement are warranted. For example, if one parent wants to cancel a planned vacation with the child and plans to work instead, it may be a good idea to stick to your regular schedule instead of the custody arrangement that was in place to accommodate the trip. Of course, it’s always a good idea to discuss any departure from your court-ordered custody arrangement with an attorney to ensure your rights are protected.

Discuss Summer Activities And Social Distancing With Your Child’s Other Parent

For many families, the summer months are traditionally a time for kids to spend time outside playing with friends, going to the pool or the beach, or just hanging out with friends in the neighborhood. While most guidance indicates that it’s okay to spend time outdoors, you should be sure to discuss your social distancing preferences with your child’s other parent. Issues to discuss include what activities are allowed, whether your child should wear a mask while playing with others, and whether you will allow others into your home.

In addition, you should also discuss what your child’s other parent is doing while he or she does not have custody of your child. In the event that he or she is not following appropriate protocols, engaging in high-risk behavior, or actively showing signs of infection, you may be able to depart from your child custody arrangement or obtain a court order granting your temporary custody of your child. Again, you should be sure to talk to a lawyer before you take matters into your own hands and refuse to hand over custody of your child in accordance with the terms of your current arrangement.

Call Us Today To Speak With A Charlotte Child Custody Law Firm

If you have questions or concerns about your child custody arrangement this summer, you should speak to a lawyer in Charlotte as soon as you can. To schedule your consultation with an attorney, call Blood Law today at (704) 286-0570 or contact us online.

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