Family Law- COVID-19 Issues
Last updated May 14, 2020
Below are selected websites from reliable sources, vetted by our Law Librarians. This is not an exhaustive list of information available on this topic, but a starting point to provide you with basic information during this pandemic.
In an effort to stop the spread of the coronavirus or COVID-19, many states, including California, have issued mandatory stay-at-home or shelter in place orders. Complying with such orders has triggered many family law issues revolving around divorce, child custody and visitation. Here we have gathered information on these issues.
Questions about Child & Spousal Support
Court Services Available
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, California Courts are closed to the public. Certain court services have been deemed “emergency services” to be available during the COVID-19 closure. Please read the County of San Diego Superior Court’s Family Court Procedures During Emergency Conditions and FAQ’s. Check the Court’s webpage for updates.
Legal Clinics
Legal Aid Society is providing legal assistance by phone. Check their website for more information: https://www.lassd.org/area/free-clinics.
San Diego Volunteer Lawyer Program, Inc. is providing family law legal assistance by phone. Please check their website for instructions: https://www.sdvlp.org/get-help/family-law/
Custody and Visitation
Many people have questions about complying with custody and visitation orders while under stay-at-home / shelter in place orders during the COVID-19 pandemic.
NOLO-How to Handle Child Custody and Visitation During COVID-19 Outbreak
A short video on Custody and Visitation during the COVID-19 pandemic presented by the California Lawyers Association:
Questions About Child and Spousal Support
Currently, courts are not hearing other that emergency hearings. Check you court’s website for updates on when it will re-open to the public. The California Lawyers Association has prepared a short video on general information about Child Support and Spousal Support during the COVID-19 pandemic:
Guardianship
San Diego Volunteer Lawyer Program, Inc. is providing guardianship legal assistance by phone. Please call 619-235-5656 Ext. 111 for assistance. https://www.sdvlp.org/get-help/children-and-foster-youth/
