Coronavirus and Child Custody - Dennis B. Dahlberg
We are closely following the news about Coronavirus and a second burst of the traditional flu that is affecting people in our community. We deeply understand the anxiety and hardships that the current Coronavirus / COVID-19 outbreak is causing to everyone in our community.
As one would expect, we do have clients who are seeking advice because the other parent, or party in a case, is claiming that he or she cannot see the children because of the COVID-19 Stay Home order.
First, and foremost, we encourage you to carefully read the Orders issued by Governor DeWine, Dr. Amy Acton, and review your local county websites for the Domestic and Juvenile Court Divisions.
Additionally, as a matter of practicality and health, you should also exam whether or not there is any indication of any person having been sick at either parent’s residence, or any other factor(s) that makes one parent’s home more of a risk than the other’s home
Many of Ohio’s county courts have issued press releases on their website that states parents are to exercise parenting time as normal with due regard to the safety of children. Additionally, on the Stay at Home Order, there is an exception regarding parenting provision for parents (See essential travel 14(e) travel required by law enforcement officer or court order including to transportation of children pursuant to a custody agreement.)
Many of the courts have issued guidance for those parents with custody or shared parenting plans for them to follow the “spirit” of the order where it is practical and to the best of their ability. Parties should adhere to all holiday and spring break schedules as designated by their schools at the beginning of the school year regardless of recent changes. They should follow the regular parenting schedule during all other times unless their orders specifically address school closures. The parties should also communicate about the location, health, and welfare of the children each day, and should discuss travel plans and arrangements as required by their parenting plans or custody orders. While the Governor has called this an “extended” Spring Break, many children will be out of school because of the inability of the school to conduct business.
If you, or a family member, has any questions in regards to custody or parenting plans during this difficult time period, please contact our office. We stand ready to assist you in your family, and we will work diligently to assist you in finding a reasonable resolution to these matters as soon as is possible.
We would appreciate the opportunity to discuss your needs with you or your family, and help to provide you with some peace of mind. Please feel free to contact one of our attorneys for a free consultation at 614-670-8103, or visit us at www.dsflawfirm.com.
Dennis B. Dahlberg, Esq.