On behalf of Stange Law Firm, PC posted in child custody on Wednesday, April 22, 2020.
Missouri families are adjusting to the widespread closure of many schools and businesses. The nationwide health crisis has affected nearly every household, changing the way people work, keep in touch with friends and family, and even grocery shop. The state recently announced that courts will remain closed for at least a few more weeks, leaving many to wonder how the current circumstances will affect their child custody proceedings.
Many parents may feel like their lives are in limbo because cases that may have been adjudicated by now are at a standstill. This can be frustrating and stressful for parents that are trying to get organized and make long-term plans. Parents may also have to make changes to existing child custody schedules to accommodate school closures and employment situations.
Parents that are awaiting judicial action may want to reach out to a local attorney. Many law firms are providing clients with a way to communicate with an attorney remotely, while keeping security and privacy a priority. There may be avenues to keep a case moving despite the court closures.
Some courts are allowing mediation and similar action to be conducted via secure video conferencing. An attorney can help a client explore such options, and participate remotely to ensure a client is represented for all proceedings. While courts are not conducting in-person hearings unless a case is considered an emergency, court employees are still working behind the closed doors. An attorney can help a client figure out the most efficient way to establish, modify or enforce a child custody order while the courts are closed to the public and prepare for the day when in-person hearings resume.
