Even as restrictions and stay-at-home orders continue to loosen, it is important to make sure your family is in agreement regarding how to prepare and plan for COVID-19.
Let’s say you have a strict social distancing plan for your family, but then your children are with your ex-partner one weekend who doesn’t observe the same plan. If this were the case, then your children could be exposed and then expose others to increased germs. This is especially risky if someone in your immediate family has compromised health for any reason.
The best way to combat this is to make sure your children follow the same rules and expectations — no matter whose house they are staying at. Undoubtedly, this is not something that came up when you first planned your joint custody arrangement; however, that does not mean a family law lawyer can’t help you with it now!
Keep reading for tips on handling COVID-19 with your family, and contact us today if you need help with family law — The Law Office of Ronald Kossack is here to help. Schedule a free consultation today and be sure to check out our page on how we’re handling COVID-19.
Agree on the Health Standards for Your Family
First and foremost, you and your ex need to agree to a set of health standards for your family. This can vary immensely depending on your needs and beliefs. Perhaps you implement a hand-washing rule every time you enter the house or perhaps you both agree that your children will see no one but their siblings and parents. Whatever the “rules,” just make sure you are both on board and both agree to follow them. This will require you both to make compromises and communicate openly with each other, as you did when you first approached family law and made a future plan for your family. Remember, this is for the health of your family and children.
Adjust Your Parenting Plan If Needed
COVID-19 has affected day-to-day life in unprecedented ways. Because of this, it may be necessary to adjust your parenting plan to cope with the new normal. Perhaps your job or your ex’s job has been impacted or maybe school won’t look the same this fall. Perhaps you or your ex don’t agree with the other’s stipulations for protection from the coronavirus. Whatever it is, it may become necessary to change the former parenting plan. This is an important aspect of family law, and a family law attorney in Tempe will certainly be able to help. Remember, this can be a permanent or temporary change depending on your needs and circumstances.
Communicate Openly With Your Children
Finally, be sure to communicate openly and honestly with your children. They have a right to be involved in the decision-making process and know where you and your ex are coming from. Check out our blog post COVID-19 and Kids: How to Talk to Your Children About the Pandemic for more information and tips.
Family Law in Tempe? We Have You Covered
Here in Tempe, we are your resource for all things family law. For more information on family law and COVID-19, check out these additional posts:
Whether you are getting started in the divorce process, need help with legal separation, or are looking for more information about child custody, child support, and more, you can count on us. Contact us today for a free initial consultation with a family law attorney in Tempe!