As COVID-19 vaccines continue to roll out, many parents have to make a decision regarding whether or not to vaccinate their children. The coronavirus vaccine is a topic many people feel strongly about. As a result, some parents are finding it hard to agree when it comes to vaccinating their children against the virus. Read on to learn more about what to do if you and your co-parent are unable to reach a consensus regarding vaccinating your child.
Physical vs Legal Custody?
It is important to understand the different types of custody awarded in Pennsylvania. When it comes to custody, there are two main types: physical and legal.
Physical custody is awarded to the parent with whom the child spends the most time. The child will reside with this parent for more nights of the week, and this parent will be responsible for providing stable shelter and other necessities for the child. It is important to know that, in most cases, the child will spend time at the other parent’s home as well.
Legal custody refers to a parent’s right to make important decisions in the lives of their children. These decisions may regard medical care, religion, education, and more. You do not have to have physical custody to have legal custody.
What if We Share Legal Custody?
If you have sole legal custody, you can make the decision about whether to vaccinate your child on your own. On the other hand, if you and your ex-spouse have joint-legal custody, you will both need to agree when it comes to these important decisions. One of the most important steps to take is reaching out to your child’s pediatrician. This will help you make an informed deicison. Additionally, the parent objecting to the vaccine can request mediation. This will allow you to work through the matter with the help of a neutral third party. If mediation is unsuccessful, the decision may be left in the hands of a Pennsylvania court.
If you and your ex cannot come to an agreement, our firm is here to help. We will advocate for you and your child every step of the way.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED PENNSYLVANIA FIRM
We understand that going through the legal system alone can be both confusing and highly stressful. That is why it is our job to help you through every step of the process ahead. For years, we have been helping clients throughout Lancaster County and its surrounding areas through a wide range of legal matters, including personal injury cases, criminal defense matters, family law issues, estate planning law matters, and more. If you need legal assistance, we are here to help. Contact Ilkhanoff & Silverstein today.
