The divorce rate in today’s society is staggering. Many of these couples have children, meaning that additional lives are affected by the dissolution of the marriage. When parents divorce, they must think about not only dividing their assets and beginning separate lives but also how they will continue raising their children.
Regardless of their age, children are affected when their parents divorce. Many children feel responsible that the marriage fell apart and some try to get their parents back together. Added to this stress is the change in living arrangements. Parents and the family courts must make child custody decisions that affect the entire family unit. Many factors must be weighed to arrive at the least damaging outcome.
Working out child custody during divorce can be difficult because laws vary by state and they can be complex. To ensure that nothing is overlooked, each parent should consider retaining specialized legal counsel. A family lawyer practicing in the state where the parent resides is most qualified for the job. This attorney will help his or her client petition for the desired type of custody during the divorce process.
Some parents pursue joint custody in divorce, which allows each of them to spend time with the children and make consensual decisions that affect the future of the youngsters. Other parents agree that one of them will have sole physical custody while the other will receive visitation time with the children. Legal custody may also be shared, if desired, allowing each parent to have a say in the education and religion of the children.
Child custody help provided by a family lawyer ensures that each parent is aware of and understands the types of custody available. The attorney interprets state custody laws so parents are cognizant of their rights and know what is required when petitioning for custody. With help from a family lawyer, a parent can make a strong case for physical or legal custody.
During a divorce, parents should think about both themselves and their children. Child custody decisions affect children until the youngsters are no longer minors. There are many factors to weigh when determining which custody arrangement is best. Family law attorneys help their clients consider each one carefully and prepare petitions for family courts to review. Custody decisions are extremely important so every relevant aspect should be carefully considered before they are made.
