Parenting during restrictions

When the usual points of changeover are closed or inaccessible due to restrictions (like schools), it may not be possible for parents to comply with court orders or their usual parenting arrangements. For children who spend time with their parents in different states, border closures have made this impossible.

So what can be done?

The simplest way to find a new arrangement may be to communicate with the other parent to try to reach an agreement, if it is safe to do so. This can be done by parents or by lawyers acting on behalf of parents. There are also mediation services that can assist parents, many of which are conducting sessions electronically during this time.

For parents who have negotiated a temporary solution to their parenting arrangements, it is recommended that all agreements reached during this time are put in writing either by way of informal methods such as email or in a parenting plan which can specify that the changed arrangements are only for the period of the COVID-19 restrictions. Having written agreements can reduce confusion and evidence agreements reached, especially if the parents are involved in any future court hearings.

Receiving advice from an experience legal professional can put your mind at ease regarding your rights and obligations in parenting matters during this unprecedented time.

If you need advice in relation to any family law matter, including parenting issues, please contact us.

*The legal information in this article is of a general nature only and not intended to be legal advice to rely upon