Protecting Our Children from Separation and Divorce Litigation
In a divorce or child custody case it is important that the divorce court provide appropriate services. When a divorce involves children, the allocation of the court’s resources usually starts at a scheduling conference. In a growing number of jurisdictions the court will require divorcing couples to attend co-parenting classes.[youtube:JWMwS064ijo;[link:Stop Fighting Over the Kids];http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JWMwS064ijo&feature=related]
When divorcing parties are referred to court ordered mediation the only information delivered to the court file is that mediation was completed, not the terms of any proposals. Usually, if the parties reach an agreement a mediator will prepare a parenting plan for the parties to review with their respective counsel. Mediation is confidential.
It is questionable whether cases with domestic violence allegations are appropriate for mediation. A skilled mediator will be able to assess if a can is appropriate for mediation in a very short time. Family courts are big on mediation and settlement conferences.
There are times when the family services units will act as the eyes and ears of the court. It is often very difficult for court staff to cut through all of the he said-she said stuff that always accompanies contested child custody litigation. Usually, drug and alcohol abuse, domestic violence, inept parenting and interference with child access are among the biggest complaints lodged back and forth.
The ages and stages of child development relative to separation and divorce are often explored in great detail with parents. Children of different ages have similar yet different reactions to the changing family dynamics associated with separation and divorce. Children need two parents to love and nurture them.
Children need both parents. No matter how hard you try, your children will be negatively impacted by your divorce, so try to minimize it the best you can. Don’t get caught up in trying to continually bash your ex.
Tagged with: Child Custody Cases • Collaborative Divorce • Collaborative Law • divorce • Divorce Lawyer • family • family-law • Law • lawyers • legal • Marriage • mediators • Parenting • visitation
Filed under: Divorce Lawyer
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