Can Virtual Mediation Help Settle COVID-19 Co-Parenting Disputes?

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has changed the lives of all people in the state of New Jersey as we are living under stay-at-home orders. As a result, divorced co-parents are working to adjust to their new situation and figure out what is best for their children during this difficult time. While New Jersey courts are temporarily closed, parents may be wondering what they can do to work out any disagreements they may have over family law issues. It is important to know that our firm is available to provide virtual mediation services that help reach agreements regarding these disputes. Continue reading to learn more and contact an experienced New Jersey family law attorney for guidance handling these matters. 

Custody Agreements During COVID-19

All individuals in New Jersey are required to abide by the state’s stay-at-home orders. This is the same for co-parents. During this time, it is understandable that parents are concerned for the safety and wellbeing of their children. When a former spouse lives in an area that is unsafe or high in exposure, they may want to ignore their custody agreement and keep their child from seeing the other parent. On the other end, a parent may be worried about getting to see their child during this time if they are ordered to stay in. It is important to know that parents cannot simply break their custody agreement without permission of the parent or the court. Doing so can result in its own set of consequences.

What Disputes May Occur Due to COVID-19?

After living under the conditions of the pandemic for quite some time now, there are common threads that can be seen regarding the issues that co-parents are facing. This can include the following:

• One parent does not want to meet the other because they believe there is nowhere safe to exchange the kids
• One parent refuses to drop their children off at a house where an immunocompromised person lives
• One parent is afraid to leave their children with an ex that works in a job that exposes them to the virus, such as a hospital or grocery store
• One parent disagrees with the terms of their temporary child custody agreement
• One parent refuses to drop their child off with an ex who does not abide by the CDC and WHO guidelines, such as social distancing or wearing a mask

What do I do if my Ex Does Our Custody Agreement?

Until courts can reopen in New Jersey, essential cases can be held virtually and over the phone. However, courts can be expected to be backed up as a result of these unprecedented schedules. It is because of this that co-parents who believe they can work their issues out together should contact a family law attorney who can guide them through virtual mediation sessions. This can allow them to reach solutions regarding the problems they are facing within a timely manner through healthy conversations.

Contact our Firm

If you require strong legal representation for matters related to divorce or family law, Haber Silver Russoniello & Dunn is here to help. We proudly represent clients in Morris County and throughout the state of New Jersey. Contact our firm today to schedule a consultation.