No one ever thinks they’ll get divorced. However, sometimes separation is what’s best for everyone. Still, the process becomes more complicated when kids are involved. Here are three important factors to consider when divorcing with children.
Scheduling
One of the hardest things about parents getting divorced is coming up with a new schedule. At the very beginning, both parents should sit down together to create a cohesive co-parenting plan. Discuss who the kids will live with the majority of the time and how visitation for the other parent will work. Each party should hire a lawyer to guide them through these discussions. An experienced family law attorney can help the parents figure out a schedule that works for everyone.
Child Support
Another factor to consider when divorcing with children is whether one party will pay child support. Child support is typically put into place so that the children have everything they need financially. The goal is to minimize the impact of the divorce on the kids as much as possible. Thus, the children should still receive all of the supplies they got when their parents were married. Again, lawyers should be present during discussions regarding child support agreements so that all parties are on an equal footing. Attorneys can help to put a legally binding plan in place that only the courts can refute.
Keep Things Private
People who are getting divorced should reach out to their loved ones for support. Ending a marriage is incredibly painful, so it’s important to have a support system in place. However, divorcing parents should also try their hardest to keep things private. Bad-mouthing exes is never a good strategy. Moreover, sharing negative posts on social media can impact a custody case, so err on the side of caution before posting anything regarding the divorce or its proceedings.
Parents must prioritize their children’s needs during a separation. Change is scary for little ones, so the most important thing is to assure them that they’re loved. The more open that parents are with their children, the better.