What is virtual visitation?

 Posted on July 31, 2017 in Child Custody

There are a variety of situations courts run up against when deciding child custody cases in Illinois. In any situation, though, the court's main concern is creating a parenting plan that is best for the child and considers the child's ability to have a healthy relationship with both parents. A relatively new idea has been introduced in courts called virtual visitation, which according to Divorce Help for Parents, is where technology is used to assist with visitation when the parent cannot physically be with the child.

You may be the custodial parent of your child but his or her other parent also has rights. The court wants to be sure he or she has just as much influence over your child's life and ability to bond with your child as you do. In situations where your child's other parent cannot be with your child physically, such as when a parent moves out of state or is deployed in the military, it becomes more difficult to arrange parenting time. In times like these, courts are starting to turn to technology to bridge the gap and help ensure parents are able to stay in their children's lives, which is where virtual visitation comes into play.

Typically, virtual visits are done using a device that has video capabilities, so the children can see their parent. A computer or cell phone can be used to allow them to talk and see each other. While this is not a substitute for actual time spent together, it can be helpful when physical visits are limited or not possible. This information is only intended to educate and should not be interpreted as legal advice.