Child custody is often one of the most contentious aspects of a divorce. The courts will always use the standard of what is best for the child when deciding child custody matters. The courts use this standard when determining joint custody and that is what is most often awarded.
So, what is the main reason that parents fight over custody? According to the chief executive officer at National Family Solutions, “The single biggest factor is a father trying to establish his rights. Most fathers just assume going to court will end in failure because courts will always side with the mother. This is simply not true.””
The CEO also said that children are too often used as pawns in order to frustrate or anger the other parent. It is never good for parents to put children in the middle. It is important that the kids are not used to hurt or anger the other parent. Dropping kids off late for the other parent’s visitation is just one example of trying to use the kids as pawns.
Involving professionals in the process can be very helpful, such as doctors, counselors and more. The professionals not only can help the child, but they can also testify in court when needed to help the judge determine the best interests of the child.
When deciding child custody agreements, it is best to keep the big picture in mind. It’s about developing a relationship with the other parent that works for the children. If the parents are only concerned with hurting each other, the child will be forgotten.
An attorney can help you understand more about child custody and how to keep your child as your main focus.
Source: Huffington Post, “Understanding Child Custody Disputes With Help From National Family Solutions,” Mike Wood, Oct. 06, 2016
