© 2024 Law Office of Sarina Gianna, LLC.
All rights reserved. Attorney advertising.
What if My Ex and I Disagree About Vaccinating Our Child?
Vaccines are a controversial subject. It is not uncommon for parents to disagree when it comes to vaccinating their children. If you and your ex-spouse cannot agree upon vaccinating your child, read on to learn more.
Physical vs Legal Custody?
Your custody arrangement will play a large role in determining your parental rights. The two main types of custody awarded in New Jersey include physical and legal custody.
Physical custody, sometimes known as residential custody, determines the child’s main guardian. This also settles where the child will live. The parent with physical custody is also known as the custodial parent, as they are the ones with whom the child will live and spend the majority of their time. It is important to know that while the child will reside with this parent, they will also spend time in their other parent’s home.
When a parent is awarded legal custody, they are involved in making important decisions on behalf of their child. It allows them to have an influence on the important parts of their child’s life. This may include matters such as health care, academics, religious practices, and more. Legal custody allows the non-custodial parent the right to speak up and have a say in these situations. If you have sole legal custody, it is up to you to decide whether to vaccinate your child.
Steps to Take in the Event of Disagreement
If you and your ex-spouse share legal custody, things can get more complicated. If you disagree about vaccinating your child against COVID-19, you should take the following steps:
- Speak with your child’s pediatrician. It is important to be fully informed when making a decision like this.
- If this does not settle the matter, the objecting parent may need to request mediation. You and your ex can attempt to work through the issue with the help of a neutral third party.
- If mediation does not settle the matter, you may need to go through a New Jersey court. In this case, the court will make the decision they feel is in your child’s best interests.
If you and your ex cannot agree about vaccinating your child, our firm is here to help. Reach out today to speak with an experienced family law attorney.
Contact our experienced Ocean City firm
Matters of divorce and family law require the attention and skill of an experienced attorney who will fight for your future. Not only is your financial well-being at stake, but in a divorce, both you and your children’s emotional well-being are at risk as well. If you need a divorce and family law attorney in Ocean County, New Jersey, please do not hesitate to contact the Law Office of Sarina Gianna, LLC today to schedule a consultation.
