COVID – 19 AND VISITATION

The COVID-19 crisis, has left family law attorneys inundated with questions regarding if and how visitations are to be exercised.  Since most us have not been through a pandemic, advice varied.

On April 2, 2020, Georgia Governor, Brian Kemp, issued Executive Order 04.02.29.01.  This order requires visitors and residences of Georgia to “shelter in place.”   As it relates to visitation, it is important to understand that the Governor's order doesn't suspend the powers of the judiciary branch; statutes, orders and decrees issued by the court are still in effect. 

What does this mean for parenting plans and visitation?   In a nutshell, everything is to remain status quo.  The shelter in place order has no effect on parental rights and responsibilities regarding visitation.   Parents who do not permit visitation could face contempt charges.  Additionally, the order states that that the transportation and visitation of family members is an “essential service” and thereby permissible.