CHILD CUSTODY AND VISITATION AND COVID 19 - at least for now.
1. Currently the parties are encouraged to continue to follow their current
custodial orders. As it stands now, COVID 19 is not a reason to deny parenting
timre. If this is of concern to you, it is suggested that you discuss
any possible temporary modifications to your order with the other party,
such as school related concerns, exchange locations, etc. The parties
can agree to temporarily modify their custodial schedules and definitely
put any modifications in writing. Otherwise, the parties are encouraged
to follow their current orders.
2. Out of State Travel: If the parties agree that the child should not
travel (airplane, train, etc.), the parties should attempt to allow additional
Facetime/Zoom, etc. communication during the otherwise cancelled visit.
Because stricter SheIter In Place Orders have been issued, it is not recommended
that children fly at this time. However, if the parties are unable to
agree to suspend any travel at this time, you may need to bring an emergency
motion to the Court to decide this issue. Please attempt to mediate this
issue first, before taking this matter to Court.
3. Social Distancing Concerns: If you have concerns about social distancing
or high exposure to COVID 19, attempt to share your concerns with the
other party and attempt to modify the current orders to accommodate your
concerns and address the best interest of your child.
4. Patience: Both parties shall at least try (even if temporarily) to
be understanding and patient with one another. We are all doing our best
to find the best ways to keep our families safe during this time. If you
lose time right now, it is very likely that you can either make up your
time in the future, or find other ways to connect with your child until
this is over.
5. Court Access: Courts (at least in Los Angeles County/Central District)
are open for limited hearings, including emergency custody orders and
domestic violence hearings, but I highly recommend this option as your
last resort.