What is Virtual Visitation? – What You Need to Know

Our approach to digital connectivity has been reshaped in a post-pandemic lockdown world. As the world adapted to remote work, online schooling, and virtual social gatherings, the realm of family law also witnessed a transformation, particularly in how separated or divorced parents interact with their children.

Virtual visitation has emerged as a vital solution for maintaining familial bonds despite physical distances. But what is virtual visitation? Boudreaux Law Firm is here to keep you informed about the ins and outs of virtual visitation and whether this is a feasible solution for your situation.

[Related: How to Explain Divorce to Your Children]

What is Virtual Visitation?

Virtual visitation refers to the use of electronic communication tools to facilitate interactions between individuals who are physically separated. This form of communication is particularly significant in situations involving separated or divorced parents and their children. Virtual visitation includes video calls, instant messaging, text, and emails, each serving as a bridge to maintain and enhance familial bonds despite geographical distances.

The Legal Framework for Virtual Visitation in Georgia

In Georgia, as in many other states, the legal system has begun to formally recognize and incorporate virtual visitation into family law, particularly in the realm of child custody and visitation rights. While specific laws and statutes may evolve, the essence of virtual visitation in legal terms is to ensure that non-custodial parents and their children can maintain regular and meaningful contact.

Georgia courts typically integrate virtual visitation into parenting plans, taking into account the best interests of the child. This consideration includes the child’s age, the existing relationship between the non-custodial parent and the child, and the overall impact on the child’s well-being. The courts strive to create a balanced approach that respects the primary residential arrangements while facilitating emotional bonds through virtual interactions.

[Related: Child Custody Arrangements in Georgia]

Benefits of Virtual Visitation for Families

Virtual visitation can significantly strengthen the bond between parents and children. It allows for frequent and spontaneous communication, which is less feasible with traditional in-person visitations, especially when geographical constraints exist. Video calls, for example, enable parents to be a part of their children’s daily routines, such as:

• Helping their child with homework.
• Reading bedtime stories to their child.
• Talking to them about their daily activities or sharing important milestones through video calls, where the child and parent can see their facial expressions.

Virtual visitation can also enhance co-parenting relationships by facilitating smoother and more frequent communication. It provides a platform for parents to discuss and manage co-parenting duties collaboratively, which can help reduce conflicts and misunderstandings. This cooperative approach can lead to a more stable and supportive environment for the child.

Do you want to devise a co-parenting plan to benefit your child’s upbringing, or are you encountering challenges with your current plan? Contact Boudreaux Law Firm; we have expert and experienced family law attorneys who can help come to a resolution that is in your child’s best interest. Contact us today and tell us about your situation.

Challenges of Virtual Visitation

While virtual visitation has its advantages, it still has its challenges. With the rise of digital communication comes the challenge of ensuring privacy and security. Parents must use secure platforms and maintain digital etiquette to protect the privacy of their children and themselves. This includes being cautious about sharing personal information and ensuring that the child’s interactions are appropriate and safe.

While virtual visitation offers numerous benefits, it is essential to maintain a balance with in-person interactions. Physical presence plays a critical role in building and sustaining emotional bonds. Parents and legal advisors must ensure that virtual visitation complements, rather than replaces, face-to-face contact.

How Boudreaux’s Family Law Attorneys Can Help with Virtual Visitation

Navigating the complexities of virtual visitation requires knowledgeable and experienced legal guidance. Boudreaux Law Firm is well-versed in the intricacies of family law and virtual visitation rights in Georgia. Our team can assist in drafting comprehensive parenting plans that include provisions for virtual visitation, ensuring that they align with legal standards and serve the best interests of the child.

Contact us today at 706-869-1334 to learn whether virtual visitation can benefit your family’s situation and how to start incorporating virtual visitation into your parenting plan.