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Tips for Handling Custody and Visitation During the Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to people tightening their social circles often to immediate family out of necessity. Social distancing measures implemented by states were put into place to “flatten the curve” to ensure hospitals would not become overwhelmed by new cases.

Some of these social distancing measures are beginning to relax, but there are those who might still be a little leery about expanding their social circles again. This can have an effect on custody and visitation for divorced parents. 

Social distancing rules have no effect on custody orders

It is important to note that your child custody and visitation orders in your divorce are still legally binding even during a pandemic situation. You are expected to continue following your custody arrangement as much as possible unless you and the other parent can come to an alternative plan or a judge changes the order.

That being said, there are some situations in which parents might have valid concerns that could lead to a temporary change and possible make-up visitation time later. These could include:

  • One of the parents exhibiting symptoms of the COVID-19 virus
  • One of the parents having recently been exposed to someone with a confirmed COVID-19 case
  • One of the parents having a high-risk job that results in them being frequently exposed to COVID-19
  • A child at high risk for contracting COVID-19 due to being immunocompromised

If you believe there is a health risk associated of allowing your child to spend time with their other parent, you should take all of the necessary legal steps to temporarily amend your custody arrangement and offer alternatives, such as future make-up time or virtual visits. Work with an experienced Minnesota custody lawyer at Appelhof, Pfeifer & Hart, P.A. to accomplish this.

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  • "Tori had a thorough understanding of my situation and made excellent recommendations to resolve my concerns. She was persistent on communication and handled everything in a very timely manner. I would definitely hire her again in the future if needed." - M.K.

  • "With Appelhof, Pfeifer & Hart, P.A., it is like having a family physician. They are all knowledgeable, thorough, comforting, and the only call I need to make for all my legal needs for many years to come. No matter what the matter, I totally trust their advice and commitment to me and my family." - J.N.

  • "Mary from APH Law helped me thru a difficult divorce. She and the entire staff was there for me every step of the way helping me on what to do next. They listened to what I wanted and helped me achieve what matter the most to me in the divorce settlement." - Dana C.

  • "I chose APH after my initial consultation with Mary. I felt my best interest would be represented. The entire process went excellent, the attorneys and staff communicated effectively and efficiently with me throughout the process as they needed to. Being new to the legal process and verbiage, they walked me and talked me through the next steps and the jargon, I felt completely comfortable and represented. I hope I never have to use legal services again but if I do I will call Mary at APH Law and know that I will be taken care of." - Jeff M.

  • "Divorce is a time of emotion and stress. Mary Pfeifer , My lawyer was professional and compassionate. She was very informative through the process. Her insight helped me in my decisions. She worked hard to obtain a settlement which was fair to both parties. Though, I hope I won't need her help again. It is reassuring to know a good person that is willing to help." - Rod S.

  • "I first came to Ms. Jacquelyn Lutz of Appelhof, Pfeifer and Hart in October of 2016. It was definitely the worst time in my life and she compassionately spoke with me about my options. Ms. Lutz thoroughly explained the laws, statutes, process and what to expect going forward. What was supposed to be one case, turned into three intricate cases that took a huge toll on me and my family. Ms. Lutz represented me in court on all three cases with a vast knowledge of the laws and how to proceed accordingly. During all three cases she kept me informed, calm, gave me resources to utilize, and (most important) gave me a realistic view of what may come next. Ms. Lutz knew each case required a great deal of knowledge and creative thinking on how to legally proceed forward with each case. My family and friends are forever grateful for the amazing representation by Ms. Lutz. I highly recommend Ms. Lutz for anyone needing or considering superb representation for any kind of family law. " - M.H.

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