Divorce is difficult enough, and the situation could become more troubling if your ex is allowed to relocate with your children. You’ve decided not to fight this move, but you obviously still want to maintain a close relationship with the kids. Divorce attorneys in Stoughton can help parents develop a visitation schedule that works for everyone and have it set up with the court in a legal document.
Creating a Long-Distance Visitation Schedule
When a parent relocates with the kids, visitation may primarily depend on how far away they are now.
If the custodial parent moves to a location within 200 miles, for example, the two parents might agree to meet halfway a certain number of times during the year to exchange the youngsters. A similar arrangement might work for certain school vacations and for some weeks during the summer.
If the move is further away, parents may need to agree to split airfare for visits. This should be specified in the visitation agreement set up by a divorce attorney in Stoughton. You might have to spend some weekends in the city where the kids live.
Include a stipulation in the divorce documents specifying that you are welcome at important events in the children’s lives. That might include anything from band concerts to church confirmations. Make a point of being there if at all possible.
Putting Technology to Good Use
You may have not yet embraced all the technology that can help you maintain a close relationship with your youngsters. Now is the time to do so. Use email, texting and video chats frequently.
Family courts are backing a concept known as virtual visitation, and some states have even passed laws in support of virtual visitation. This allows the noncustodial parent to have regular scheduled time with the children using online and mobile technology. A firm such as The Law Office of Bruce S. Raphel PC can set up a virtual visitation schedule.
Concluding Thoughts
It can take significant effort to spend in-person time with children when they don’t live nearby. Nevertheless, parents have more opportunities now than ever before to stay emotionally close with their kids on a long-distance basis. Stay dedicated to the goal of maintaining regular contact, and you’ll continue having a satisfying and rewarding relationship with them.
