Supervised Visits With Your Child During the Coronavirus Crisis
Who should use tip sheet?
If you are a parent and you were ordered by a judge to have monitored visits with your child. This means someone else is with you and your child while you visit with your child.
Will I still get to visit with my child during this crisis?
It depends. Your monitor may decide that it is unsafe for you and your child to continue with your regular visits because of the risk of spreading the virus.
One option is to have virtual visits instead of visits with your child in-person. Contact your provider to see if virtual visits is an option.
What are virtual visits?
Virtual visits take place on the phone or on-line. Some programs allow you to see your child and for you to see them during the visit. These programs require internet connection. Another way to have a virtual visit is by email, or on-line chat.
Can I have virtual visits in my case?
Some cases may not appropriate for virtual visits, like cases that involve domestic violence, child abuse or sexual abuse. Also, your child’s age will also be a factor. Younger children may not be able to sit through a long virtual visit.
Every case is different so you should contact your provider to see if you are eligible for virtual visits. If your monitor allows you to have a virtual visit you can use the tip sheet to prepare and plan for your visit.
What if I want to change my current order for visitation?
Only a judge can change your order but during this crisis your monitor has to provide you with a service that is safe. If you want to ask a judge to change your current order, you can file a request with the court.
However, some courts may have limited services or completely closed. Check here for information about your local court:
Tip Sheet for Virtual Visits
Before
your visit, make sure the program, like a mobile app or web app, works on your phone or computer.
Make sure you have an internet connection if it is required.
Before
your visit, talk with your monitor to come up with a plan for the virtual visit. For example, is there an activity you want to do like read a book with your child?
Be clear on how long your visit will be. The length of your visit should also be age-appropriate. Younger children may need shorter visits.
During your visit, make sure you:
- Find a quiet room or space for you to take the call or visit in.
- Have any games, books, or other activity ready and in front of you.
- Be ready to be flexible. Technical issues may come up that impact your visit.
During your visit, make sure you do not:
- Have another person participate in the visit unless a judge gave the person permission to do so.
- Talk about your court case with your child.
- Do not whisper, or communicate in other ways that would not allow the monitor to see or hear.