In today’s world, there is no such thing as a “typical” divorce. There are many ways a couple can end their marriage, and the outcomes will vary depending on the needs of each family. Some families are still traditional in the sense that the mother is the primary caregiver and is the one who spends the most time with the children. In other families, fathers are much more involved in the daily responsibilities of raising their children, which can cause tension and stress when it comes to making child-centered decisions during a divorce.
Though the law states that mothers and fathers should be treated equally, fathers are sometimes still seen as “second-class” parents, and some dads feel that they are not given the same consideration as mothers when it comes to issues such as parenting time. Divorce can be difficult for everyone, but its negative effects may be especially worrisome for fathers. Here are a few tips to help dads aim for success during and after a divorce:
Tip #1: Be Proactive
When you are involved in a custody dispute that requires intervention from the court, matters can quickly become complicated. You will need to prove to the judge that you deserve to have just as much parenting time as your former partner, if not more. To demonstrate this, you will need to be involved in your children’s lives, and be sure to confer with the other parent about things like doctor’s appointments, extracurricular activities, and school progress. The goal is to prove to the Judge that you contribute more to your children’s lives than just picking them up and dropping them off.
Tip #2: Keep Things as Civil as Possible
Fighting with your former partner will rarely be beneficial. When it comes to divorce and children, hostility or anger will make it even more difficult to make a good impression to the judge. Arguing with the other parent will do nothing but make everyone even more stressed and upset. Try to work together with your ex to find mutually agreeable solutions, and you just might get what you want, even if you have to make some sacrifices during the negotiations.
Tip #3: Stay Connected, Even When You Are Away
Following your divorce, you will not be able to spend as much time with your children as you did when you were married. Depending on your parenting plan, you might go days or even weeks without seeing your children. Keeping in touch with your children even when they are not in your custody is important, and you may want to ensure that your parenting plan addresses when and how you will be able to communicate with your children during the other parent’s parenting time. Options could include phone calls, text messages, or video chats, depending on the circumstances.
An Inverness Divorce Lawyer Can Help With Child-Related Issues
Issues such as parenting time and decision-making responsibilities can be some of the most contentious matters to resolve in a divorce. As a father, you have the right to fight for the time with you that your children deserve, and a skilled Rolling Meadows, IL family law attorney can help. At The Law Office of Nicholas W. Richardson, we have the knowledge and experience to help you get the most out of your divorce, especially when it comes to child-centered issues. To schedule a free consultation, call our office today at 847.873.6741.
Sources:
https://www.verywellfamily.com/keys-for-success-as-divorced-dad-1270180
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?DocName=075000050HPt%2E+VI&ActID=2086&ChapterID=59&SeqStart=8350000&SeqEnd=10200000