Tips for Parents Getting a Divorce in Florida
It has been said that divorce is often hardest on the kids. In fact, many parents avoid getting a divorce until their children are older because they believe it will make it easier for them. However, staying together for the kids is not always the right decision, particularly when parents are combative and there is a high level of tension in the home.
If you are a parent who is considering divorce, you have likely wondered how to reduce the negative impact on your children as much as possible. It is not easy to know how to navigate this difficult time. Below, our Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer outlines some tips that can make it easier for your kids while also protecting your legal case.
Prioritize Your Child’s Best Interests
Regardless of the age of your children, it is important to prioritize their best interests during divorce. Talk to your kids, with your spouse if possible, and tell them that you both still love them and that they are not to blame for the divorce. Always prioritize their well-being and if they are young, try to maintain their current schedules as much as possible. This can provide them with a sense of stability at a very unstable time.
Having adult children may make things easier, but be careful not to say too much about the divorce, or your spouse, when talking to them. Instead, deal with your emotions when speaking to a counselor or therapist.
Do Not Ask Your Kids to Take Sides
Asking children to take sides in a divorce is very damaging. Even if you do not directly ask them questions such as who they would rather live with, your actions may indicate that you want them to take your side. For example, speaking poorly about your spouse to your kids may make it seem as though you are trying to turn them against their other parent. Not only is this very harmful to children of any age, but it can also negatively impact your legal case.
Communicate with Your Spouse Respectfully
It is important to keep all conversations with your spouse respectful. If necessary, communicating via text messages or emails can help keep conversations centered around the children and not disputes between the two of you. If you and your spouse can communicate respectfully, you may also be able to agree on the different terms of divorce. This can make divorce easier for everyone, including the children.
Agree on a Temporary Parenting Plan
You will need to draft a formal parenting plan during divorce, or the judge will create one for you. Until your divorce is finalized, however, you and your spouse will need to determine certain child-related issues, such as how important decisions regarding the children will be made and when each spouse will spend time with them. Again, agreeing on a temporary parenting plan can provide everyone with a sense of stability, which can also make it easier on the kids.
Work with Our Divorce Lawyer in Fort Lauderdale
Our Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer at Haber Blank can help you navigate the process so you are prepared for all aspects of your case, which can make it easier for everyone. Call us now at 954-767-0300 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to get the help you need.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/0061.html
