The State of Texas has chosen to reopen its economy in phases. As of today, many businesses in Texas can open up to 25% occupancy. This includes restaurant dining rooms, retail stores, malls and movie theaters. A number of businesses in Denton County are opening up for the first time in months.
Unfortunately, coronavirus hospitalizations in the state have increased dramatically over the past several weeks. Many parents are nervous about exposing their children to the virus. They feel that the best option is to proceed with caution and stay at home.
Divorced or separated parents also want to do what is best for their children. Many of them are unsure of how to handle child custody issues during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here is how you can help make the situation more manageable.
Tips for Divorced or Separated Parents
Our attorneys have experience helping parents with a variety of child custody issues. Here are our tips for divorced or separated parents during the coronavirus pandemic. For legal advice, consult with our Flower Mound child custody lawyer today.
Follow Court Orders Whenever Possible
Adjustments due to COVID-19 are inevitable. However, you should make every effort to adhere to the original custody arrangement. Doing so makes it less likely that you will suffer from legal consequences later. You should also refrain from using the coronavirus pandemic as an excuse to punish your ex-spouse. The courts will not look kindly on individuals who use this unprecedented situation as a reason to retaliate.
Pay Attention to State and Local Orders
Texas residents are obligated by law to obey state and local orders about the COVID-19 pandemic. Divorced or separated parents should review these orders before making child custody decisions. However, you may run into a situation where your child custody arrangement conflicts with coronavirus restrictions. If this happens, then you should make every attempt to honor the orders of your child custody arrangement. However, if you cannot, then you should act in a way that you can later explain to a judge.
Get Your Information From Reliable News Sources
Most people find information about the coronavirus pandemic by conducting a quick Google search. However, there is a lot of misinformation stored online. Make sure that any information you read comes from one of the following sources.
- Major national website
- Local media source
- State or federal government website
Additionally, you should remain wary of anything you read on social media. Check to see if other reliable sources are reporting on similar information. This will prevent you from making a child custody decision based on misinformation.
Communicate Effectively With Your Ex-Spouse
Communicating effectively with your ex-spouse is especially important during the COVID-19 pandemic. You should attempt to resolve any co-parenting dispute with as much kindness and civility as possible. If you are unable to do so, then contact a virtual mediator to help you reach a resolution. Taking this step may help you avoid a potential enforcement hearing or modification of your child custody agreement.
Contact a Flower Mound Child Custody Attorney
Do you have questions about child custody or visitation rights? If so, then take advantage of the consultation offered by our family law attorneys. Contact JulianJohnson, P.C. today at (972) 459-4400 or fill out the contact form on our website. We are currently available to clients through phone or teleconference options. A Flower Mound child custody attorney will listen carefully to your concerns and help you review your legal options.
