The COVID-19 vaccine has become a very divisive issue among many. For divorced parents, this matter could ultimately land you back in court if you cannot resolve the issue on your own. If it becomes clear that this is not a matter you will be able to talk your way through, however, now is the time to look over your custody agreement.
How to Handle Your Dispute Over the COVID-19 Vaccine
Oftentimes, one of the best ways to handle a disagreement with your co-parent is to revisit the terms of your divorce decree. If you have sole legal custody, this decision is yours alone to make, regardless of your co-parent’s objections. If you have joint legal custody, an attorney can prepare your case for court where a judge will ultimately decide what is in the best interests of your child. The outcome of your case can have a profound impact on your situation, especially if you petition the court to modify legal custody altogether.
If you go to court, here are some important factors to keep in mind:
- Supporting evidence: When it comes to vaccinations, personal opinions will not have much of an impact in court. Instead, a judge will place more weight on your child’s medical providers and other medical experts who either advise against or support your position.
- Parent involvement: Additionally, a judge will consider which parent has been most involved in the child’s medical care in the past. If you have always been the parent who cared for these needs, a judge may rule in your favor.
- Religious reasons: Although it is possible that the court may give some weight to religious beliefs when rendering a decision in such a case, that parent must prove that their beliefs are genuine rather than a convenient excuse to keep the children from getting vaccinated.
If your child’s school requires the vaccine to attend, the court will likely rule that the child should be vaccinated.
Discuss Your Case with an Experienced Family Law Attorney Today!
The COVID-19 vaccine has been a very polarizing matter for many. If you and your ex cannot agree on whether or not to get your child vaccinated, the experienced team at Arnel Law Firm can assist you. You can rely on us to help ensure your child’s best interests are protected.
Call our law office today at (718) 550-3024 to schedule a case evaluation with one of our attorneys to get started.
