One of the hardest things you may have to cope with when getting a divorce is losing daily contact with your children. However, you may be able to stay closer to them if you use virtual visitation in addition to your in-person visitation time.
What Is Virtual Visitation? #
Virtual visitation is a way to stay in contact with your children through the use of electronic communication. It can be a good way to keep connected if you must move to another city or state, are travelling for work, or want to stay current with their lives on the days that you do not have physical custody of your kids. Ways that you can interact include:
- Using Skype, Facetime, or another video calling service
- Emailing each other
- Talking on the phone
- Texting
- Instant messaging
- Communicating on social media sites such as Facebook or Twitter
- Playing online video games together
Getting Virtual Visitation in Your Virginia Divorce #
When making any decisions on child custody and visitation issues, the court is required to consider the best interests of the child. Under Virginia law, it is presumed that it is best for children to have an ongoing relationship with both parents.
While Virginia does not have a specific law on a non-custodial parent’s right to virtual visitation, judges are often open to it. If you file a petition requesting it, the judge may include virtual visitation in your parenting plan if you can show that it is in the best interests of your children. You can also work out an informal virtual visitation schedule with your spouse.
Our Skilled Legal Team Is Here to Help #
If you’re ready to file for divorce and have questions about virtual visitation, you need an experienced divorce lawyer to help you achieve your goals and to protect your legal rights. Call our Midlothian office, or start a live chat to schedule an initial consultation to get your questions answered and to learn how Quest Law PLLC can help you.
