When child custody is divided between two parents, that doesn’t necessarily mean that the non-custodial parent doesn’t want to have contact with the child when they aren’t together. In the modern day, this often means utilizing different types of electronic communication.
But does the parent have a right to do so? Or can a custodial parent say that their ex should only have communication when they have custody and that they should refrain from talking to the child while they are in the other parent’s care? This can create a lot of confusion and is one reason for potential disputes between coparents, so let’s look at how it should work.
Creating a parenting plan
First and foremost, parents need to create a parenting plan when they end their romantic relationship, and it should address matters like this. This resource can clarify different means of communication that are approved. For example, a parent may not want their ex to visit in person or use long phone calls, but they may be fine with text messages and email messages.
It’s also worth noting that parents can ask the court to specify different times at which this communication can take place. For example, maybe a parent wants to be able to FaceTime with their child while they don’t have custody. This could be very frustrating if it’s at an inopportune time, but setting up a schedule – such as saying that they can do so on Wednesdays at 5 o’clock – allows for that communication without the inconvenience and the increased risk of a dispute.
The plan should also address the different types of communication that may be used. Some have already been noted above, but others to consider include social media programs like Facebook or Instagram, along with online communication systems such as Skype or Slack. The agreement may also want to address older versions of communication, such as telephones or even writing letters.
Creating the plan
Overall, electronic communication can actually be very useful for divorced parents, making it easier than ever for a noncustodial parent to keep in touch. Having the right plan set up in advance can make this goes smoothly. Parents need to make sure they know exactly what steps to take to achieve this goal.