Many divorces can become a battle of wills, power grabs, or drawn-out mud-slinging dramas. However, when children are involved, the already complicated procedure can quickly become even more complex. With each parent wanting what they believe is right for the child, looking into the future with different viewpoints, and each seeking physical custody, the divorce process can become exacerbated and lengthy. Here are three divorce concerns involving children.
1. Child Custody
There are three types of child custody, although there can be combinations of the three, as well. Legal custody gives a parent the authority to make decisions about critical moments in the child’s life, such as education or religion. Physical custody places the child into the home and under the supervision of one parent while providing visitation rights to the other parent. Joint custody creates an equal guardianship with equal responsibilities and rights over the child for each parent, and often the child moves between homes during the year.
2. Child Support
Child support is frequently a hotly contested amount of money paid by the non-custodial parent for the rearing and benefit of the child. Most people don’t understand that both parents pay to support the needs of the child. One provides food, housing, and clothing, while the other parent pays money toward filling those same needs. If you have questions, your attorney can help you understand any legal child support Yorktown Heights NY concerns you may have.
3. Child Protection
Although rare, there are times when it may not be safe for a child to live with or come into contact with a parent. Should concerns about this type of scenario arise during divorce proceedings, the court will provide protection for the children through investigations or state agency protection. The child’s safety is always the most important part of the legal dealings in divorce cases.
Protecting, supporting, and the custody of children during and after a divorce can make the legal experience more intense. Still, with patience and understanding, your attorney and the court can provide our child with the best possible future.