As with all aspects of our lives, COVID-19 has forced us to adjust to new ways of living. It’s made us redefine our “normal.” And for those already navigating the challenges of co-parenting, learn what our pandemic boundaries are when it comes to our children and estranged spouses.
The struggle to find a parenting arrangement that is functionally sensible for both sides is something that many families are still dealing with now more than a year into the pandemic. Between online learning, the closing of daycares, and the need to minimize the persons within a household’s bubble, there are several moving parts that present challenges to today’s parents. Keeping children sheltered from constant adjustments that occur within child custody can be challenging enough without a global pandemic complicating things.
When it comes to the necessity of bringing your custody case before a judge, there are some new issues of discussion that were previously undiscovered pre-pandemic. We’re referring to matters of following masking guidelines, social distancing, vaccinations, virus exposure, and social bubbles. While the courts continue to struggle with a backlog of cases, the issues surrounding COVID-19 and custody agreements continue to show themselves. One parent’s definition of “safe” differing from another can result in a return before a judge. Especially as we enter in the summer months after another year of virtual schooling, our kids want to see their friends, visit cottages with family members, and enjoy the warm months of their summer holiday. While things are opening, there are still questions about the safest practices for families this summer. Parental disagreements on safe practices can lead to damaging consequences, such as an attempt to withhold a child from a parent.
Should you find yourself back in a (virtual) courtroom, rest assured that one thing which will never change is that the judge will always put that which is in the child’s best interest first. An important aspect to consider before you decide to bring your custody agreement back before a judge—therefore, putting your child through more conflict—is whether the issue is worth it. Making an emotional decision can have long-term adverse effects on both you and your child. As hard as it can be to remember this some days, this is a temporary situation. Glimpses of normalcy will one day return. It is not in your best interest to use the pandemic as a weapon. Before making any decisions that will be difficult to reverse, be sure that you are aware of all your options as well as the possible long-term consequences for your child.
With that said, whether you find yourself in a situation that demands you go to court, wish to negotiate with your ex-spouse out of court, or hope to mediate the matter, our team of dedicated and compassionate lawyers can help. Contact Gelman & Associates today to speak with one of our experienced family lawyers about your child custody case. Call us at 416-736-0200 or 1-844-769-0737, or contact us online for an initial confidential consultation.
