Coronavirus and Child Arrangements

17th March, 2020
These are uncertain times and whilst the impact will be felt most greatly by those who are vulnerable all of us will face a change in our way of life over the coming weeks and months, not least those who are living in separated families.
As the Government’s policy on self isolation evolves there will be confusion as to what that will mean to existing Child Arrangement Orders and plans put in place, without the assistance of the Court, for children to spend time with both parents. At this stage provided the children, or their parents, are not in self isolation then the children should continue to spend time with both parents as planned.
However, there will need to be a degree of flexibility. If for whatever reason the household the children are in has to self isolate then contact with the parent who the children are not with at that time will have to stop. Once the isolation period has ended contact should continue as normal, and if possible any time missed will have to be made up.
There will be far reaching implications on pre-booked family holidays. If you have to rearrange a holiday with the children then hopefully, as parents, you will be able to work out new dates between you. If not, then there might be the need to attend Mediation to discuss the issues, and as a last resort refer the matter to Court.
If you have any further questions regarding COVID-19 and existing arrangements please contact Simon Mawdsley.
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Simon MawdsleyFamily Senior Associate |
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