Virtual Visitation in Maryland: Making Co-Parenting Work in a Digital World

When parents split up, staying connected with your kids can become a lot harder, especially if you live in different places or work unusual hours. That’s where virtual visitation comes in. Whether it’s a quick FaceTime call after school or a Zoom check-in before bed, technology gives parents new ways to stay part of their children’s daily lives, even from a distance.

This is not about replacing in-person visits, but for many families, virtual meetings provide a convenient and meaningful way to maintain closeness when being physically present is difficult.

What Is Virtual Visitation, Exactly?

Virtual visitation refers to any form of contact between a parent and child that occurs online or over the phone. Think video chats, texting, emailing, even sharing photos or voice messages. Some families rely on FaceTime or Zoom for video calls, while others prefer a regular phone call at bedtime. There’s no one-size-fits-all model.

The key is this: it maintains the parent-child relationship, especially during long gaps between in-person visits.

How Do Maryland Courts View Virtual Visitation?

Maryland family courts are adapting to the way modern families live and communicate. Judges now recognize that virtual contact can play an important role in helping parents and kids stay close. However, as always, the court’s primary focus is the child’s best interests.

If a parent lives out of state, travels often, or has a schedule that makes physical visits challenging, courts may include virtual visitation in the parenting plan. Sometimes the parents can work it out on their own. At other times, the judge may need to step in and set the terms, such as how often calls should occur, who initiates them, or whether supervision is necessary.

The court will also look at whether both parents can cooperate. If there’s a history of conflict, interference, or manipulation, a judge might hesitate before ordering regular online contact.

When Virtual Visits Work Best

There are various ways this kind of contact can be beneficial. A child can share stories about their day. A parent can help with homework or attend a school event virtually. Even a quick check-in can help a child feel supported and seen.

Some families use video calls to do things like:

• Read a bedtime story together
• Celebrate a birthday from afar
• Go over a weekly schedule
• Talk through a hard day at school

It’s not just about screen time. It’s about showing up in some way, even when you can’t be there in person.

Virtual Visits May Not Always Be The Right Answer

Of course, virtual visitation isn’t perfect. Technical issues, time zone differences, or strained relationships between parents can all complicate the process more than it should be. And while some kids love chatting over video, others may feel awkward or distracted.

The court must also ensure that virtual time is used appropriately, not for spying on the other parent, not for interfering with the child’s routine, and not for controlling communication.

When It Comes To Visitation, What Should You Do Next?

If you’re thinking about adding virtual visitation to your custody order, or if you’re already doing it informally and want something more structured, it’s smart to talk with an experienced Maryland family law attorney.

At Rice Law, we’ve helped parents throughout Maryland create custody arrangements that work in real life. We know how to write parenting plans that reflect your family’s needs and protect your relationship with your child.If you would like to learn more about virtual visitation and how it could fit into your parenting plan, please reach out to us today. We’re here to help you move forward in a way that keeps your family connected.