English
EspañolWhat is virtual visitation?
Virtual visitation is the term used to describe parents using video calls to “visit” with their children. This could be done through Zoom, FaceTime, or other technology. Some states have laws that specifically allow a judge to order virtual visitation as part of a custody order. Virtual visits can be used to maintain the child’s relationship with the non-custodial parent between in-person visits or can be ordered if physical visitation isn’t safe.
How can virtual visitation help me?
Virtual visitation can be an option if in-person visits are not safe, or not practical, for the child or parent. Some types of visitation technology allow a parent to record the visits, which creates a record of what was said during a visit. This could help capture proof of abusive behavior towards the child or inappropriate things the parent might say about the other parent. However, recording without consent is not allowed in all states. You can read more about recording laws and electronic surveillance on our website. But if you are thinking of recording a virtual visit, please speak to a lawyer to make sure it would not violate the law to do so.
Are there any risks with using virtual visitation?
Virtual visitation doesn’t guarantee safety. The abuser could still abuse/harass you or your child during the visit. An abuser may want to gain access to your computer to track you, steal your information, or to try to share malicious links with you. Such links could download stalkerware or malware onto your computer.
The abuser could try to use tech to monitor you in other ways. Read more about monitoring in our GPS Monitoring page and Computer Crimes page. An advocate can help you safety plan around using tech to co-parent.
