COVID-19 and Custody

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. The virus that causes COVID-19 is a novel coronavirus that was first identified during an investigation into an outbreak in Wuhan, China.   The first case of COVID-19 in the United States was reported on January 21, 2020.  The current count of cases of COVID-19 in the United States is available on CDC’s webpage at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/cases-in-us.html.

On March 23, 2020 Governor Wolf issued a Stay-at-Home Order for numerous counties in Pennsylvania, including Delaware County.   Individuals may leave their residence only to perform allowable individual activities and allowable essential travel.  Guidelines issued with the Governor’s Order provide that allowable activities and essential travel include “travel to care for … minors, dependents … ”; and “travel required by law enforcement or court order. “  In addition, the Governor’s Office of General Counsel has confirmed to the President Judges of Pennsylvania’s Judicial Districts that the Governor’s order does not prohibit necessary travel to effectuate existing custody orders.

As these are confusing times for all, it is important to contact a knowledgeable family law attorney in order to receive proper guidance when it comes to the issue of child custody during this pandemic.  The attorneys at Varga Law Offices are dedicated to helping families navigate through this difficult process.  Please contact our office today for a confidential consultation.