December 21st, 2020

// Russell Alexander Law Firm Warns That Covid-19 Vaccine Could Lead to Disputes Among Divorced Parents Collaborative family law firm outlines legal rulings that set parameters

Russell Alexander Law Firm Warns That Covid-19 Vaccine Could
Lead to Disputes Among Divorced Parents

Collaborative family law firm outlines legal rulings that set parameters

LINDSAY, Ontario—Russell Alexander Collaborative Family Lawyers warned that the upcoming coronavirus vaccines could lead to disputes among divorced parents over whether each caregiver and the child are vaccinated.

“The coronavirus pandemic has introduced a lot of complications to parenting agreements, and we should expect something similar as the Covid-19 vaccine is rolled out,” said founder Russell Alexander. “In this case, there is a lot more guidance that we can rely on, however.”

Alexander said that past court decisions on routine vaccinations and provincial and national laws on health care workers will resolve personal disputes between parents who are skeptical and those who are supportive of vaccination.

With at least three vaccines being prepared for distribution early next year, polls show the majority of Canadians wish to get vaccinated. In a recent Ipsos poll, 61 percent even said they support mandatory vaccinations.

But, as with any vaccination, there are parents who are skeptical of the science that shows vaccines prevent disease, which can cause a clash with those concerned about the health of their children. In the past, Canadian courts have ruled that the typical “due diligence” requirement for major decisions on children’s health may be relaxed in the case of a vaccine as it relates directly to their physical and mental welfare.

“Courts generally recognize the science behind vaccines, which should boost parents who wish to keep their child healthy in any dispute,” said Alexander.

He noted that in a recent case involving the coronavirus pandemic, a court split decision-making authority between separated parents, giving custody to the mother but giving the father the express right to make the final decision on whether their child was vaccinated for the coronavirus when a vaccine becomes available.

Russell Alexander is author of the new book, "Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Divorce," which includes a bonus chapter on divorcing during the pandemic. 


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RussellAlexander Collaborative Family Lawyers 

Russell Alexander Collaborative Family Lawyers is committed to practicing exclusively in the area of family law in Ontario dealing with all aspects, including separation and divorce, child custody and access, spousal support, child support, and division of family property. A team of lawyers provide guidance from start to finish, helping clients identify and understand the legal issues as well as the options and opportunities available through the transition. The firm has offices in Lindsay, Whitby, Oshawa, Markham, Peterborough and Toronto, Ontario. 

For more information, visit: 
http://www.russellalexander.com

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