Virtual Visitation Becomes Popular in Florida

Because of the growing number of divorced parents in the state of Florida, courts now allow divorcing couples to communicate with their children virtually, which can also count towards visitation time. Digital technology makes communication possible and our lives much easier. While it is true it will never replace having quality time with your children, it can become a supplemental method of communication to strengthen your relationship with your kids. This is particularly true for parents who live in another state with a different time zone. It is very convenient to video chat with your children and see them fully expressing how they feel.

Focus on your children

This is should be the main goal of every parent. This is also the main goal of lawmakers:

• Strengthen the relationship of parents with their children
• Make internet visitation more available
• Encourage virtual visits

Nothing can replace quality time with your children. If you are the non-custodial parent, you are required to have face-to-face time with your children. In other words, internet visitation will not replace standard visitation requirements. It is just an essential tool in our modern world, especially for parents who travel often, military families, and non-custodial parents facing relocation.

Florida law

State law forbids custodial parents from moving out of state without first telling the other parent. Since the virtual visitation law was implemented, courts take a look at various factors when determining relocation such as access to technology required to communicate virtually. Other factors judges will consider include:

• If the children are okay with the idea
• If parents are struggling with substance abuse or domestic violence issues
• Other important factors related to the specific case

Both parents are required to pick a method of virtual visitation that benefits the child and install the necessary equipment as well as pay for internet services. Also, they must respect the visitation schedule. Once the schedule has been approved by a family court, the custodial and noncustodial parent will exchange information within seven days of approval.

Benefits of virtual communication

Virtual visitation can be very beneficial for the children as it will strengthen family bonds. Face-to-face internet communication allows parents to help children with homework projects and other daily activities. In other words, long-distance parents are able to get more involved in their children’s lives. Even local parents with busy schedules can communicate with their children more often thanks to technology.

Inappropriate use

It is important both the custodial and noncustodial don’t use virtual visitation against each other. Some parents may talk to the child when the other parent is not around or take screenshots to use against the other parent in court. Besides being inappropriate, this is illegal. Divorcing couples should develop a formal parenting plan and respect the fixed visitation scheduled.

Top Miami family law lawyer

To speak with our talented Miami child visitation attorney Stephanie G. Morrow about any time-sharing questions you may have, call today and schedule a confidential case review. We will help you put an action plan in place and add this form of visitation to your traditional parenting time.