When parents go through a divorce, their biggest concern is usually child custody and how often they will get to see and be with their child. In recent times, with the Coronavirus outbreak, parents’ worry for their children is spiking. Divorced parents who split custody of their child trust that the other party is following the terms of their agreement. However, if these designated terms can put the child in harm’s way with the current world health situation, it is possible to make changes to keep them safe. Continue reading below and contact an experienced New Jersey family law attorney to learn more.
How Can Custody be Affected?
A custody agreement usually includes locations that a child is and is not able to go with their parents. However, due to the spread of the Coronavirus, these locations may no longer be safe and parents may not want their child to go there. It is because of this that many parents may not want to drop their child off at their former spouse’s house. This is especially so if they live in a town that his a high infection rate.
When facing these matters, the first step is to speak directly with your former spouse and explain the concerns you have. Hopefully, these are understood and they allow you to keep your child out of harm’s way until the virus subsides. However, the other parent may demand that you follow the terms of the custody agreement. When this happens, it can be tempting to refuse and keep your child anyway. It is important not to do this, as it can result in certain legal consequences that can negatively affect your custody arrangement in the future.
The best way to get your former spouse to see your side is to show them facts and information provided by organizations such as the World Health Organization, the Center for Disease Control (CDC), etc. If your spouse still does not budge, you can speak with an attorney about filing an Order to Show Cause with the New Jersey courts. This can prompt an emergency hearing to prove to the court that an emergency modification is needed. This requires showing an “immediate, inimical and irreparable harm” to your child is present.
Contact our Firm
We understand that those getting a divorce most likely have several questions regarding the weeks and months to come. Paris P. Eliades Law Firm, LLC is honored to serve the people of New Jersey, including Sparta, Sussex County, Morris County, Passaic County, and Bergen County with the quality legal services they deserve. If you are getting a divorce or have any other questions regarding divorce-related matters, please do not hesitate to contact our firm for a consultation today.
