Pasadena divorce settlements may not include provisions for virtual visitation just yet, but this option is becoming more common with each passing year. Currently, Florida, Illinois, North Carolina, Texas, Utah, and Wisconsin all allow non-custodial parents to use virtual visitation to stay in contact with their children.
Virtual visitation refers to the use of webcams, Skype, instant messaging, and other similar high-tech tools as a way for non-custodial parents to keep in contact with their children. Virtual visitation is used in a variety of circumstances, but is most common when the children live far away from their non-custodial parent and are unable to see him or her regularly.
Virtual visits help keep the parent/child bond strong because they promote regular communication. Even though a video chat isn't the same as meeting face to face, the experience still allows the non-custodial parent to be more actively involved in the child's daily life.
As with other post-divorce parenting decisions, the best interests of the child should be considered when determining if virtual visitation is appropriate. Older children may benefit more from this arrangement than younger children, since they are already accustomed to using such technology to communicate with their friends. Younger children, in comparison, are much more likely to crave the physical presence of a parent. They may even be confused by being able to "see" a parent on the screen who they have been told is not available for a face-to-face chat.
Virtual visitation can offer significant benefits, but it's not likely to ever replace physical visitation completely. It is best thought of as a supplement to physical visits between the parent and child.
How Can We Help?
If you are a non-custodial parent who is interested in virtual visitation options or other changes to your visitation schedule, please contact our office at (626) 683-8113 or email us at info@PasadenaLawOffice.com. Our experienced Pasadena family law attorneys are eager to provide the assistance you need to preserve your relationship with your child.