One of the hardest parts of a divorce is dealing with parenting issues. Having tow separate homes can make things more difficult. That is why the courts in New Jersey want you to work together with your ex-spouse to create a parenting plan that outlines your visitation and custody. If you follow the plan, things should go smoothly and everyone should be happy. However, issues do come up. Two common issues are interference and not using parenting time.
What parents need to do after a divorce
Parents in New Jersey or any other state who get divorced may consider themselves to be in an awkward position. While their marriage is over, their relationship with a former spouse is not. This is because they will need to work together to raise their kids. This can be done by making sure that a child is not placed in the middle of any dispute between the two parents.
Tips for creating an effective parenting plan
Parents know their children's schedules better than anyone else. When a New Jersey couple splits up, however, the most effective way for children to maintain a relationship with both parents is by following a visitation plan. In divorce, this plan could be presented to the court and become a part of the divorce decree. Making significant changes to it might require returning to court. There are some things parents should consider when setting up a schedule for their children after one parent moves out of the family home.
Parental Alienation: Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's Custody Battle
Celebrities Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie appeared in the news last week as their child custody battle continues. The newest development in their court case is a court order stating that Angelina is in danger of losing custody if the children's relationship with Brad does not improve. Based on the children's deteriorating relationship with their father, it appears that Angelina may be taking part in behavior known as parental alienation.
Myths surrounding non-custodial parents
In some cases, New Jersey residents who are non-custodial parents may be looked down upon due to a number of myths surrounding separated or divorced parents. However, many of these myths are false as non-custodial parents can still share legal custody, have extensive visitation rights and provide financial support for their children. The myths can be devastating for non-custodial parents who are actively working to remain in their children's lives.
Considering the custodial parent option
In New Jersey, the custodial parent is the parent who has the most decision-making responsibilities. The custodial parent is the person who has received formal approval from the court, and a child lives with the custodial parent on a permanent basis. Even so, the noncustodial parent still has the option to maintain an intense involvement in a child's activities.
Why some domestic abuse survivors must still fight for custody
New Jersey parents who leave abusive relationships might still find themselves in a custody battle with their abusive spouses. According to the American Psychological Association, most people assume that leaving a relationship because of abuse means the parent and child will be protected from the abusive parent, but this is often not the case. The APA says that because courts are dedicated to keeping children in contact with both parents, they often dismiss allegations of abuse.
Factors used to determine child custody matters
It is not uncommon for child custody cases in New Jersey to be contentious affairs. However, there are several universal factors that generally determine the outcome whether it is decided by a judge or by the parents themselves. Ultimately, any decision that is made is supposed to be in the best interest of the child. This is true whether the parents are given joint custody or if one person is named the custodial parent.
The importance of consistency for children after a divorce
When New Jersey parents of young children divorce, they may want to minimize the contact they have with one another. However, it is important that they work out consistent households rules for their children to follow as they move between households. This consistency is important to the children's well-being. Parents should remain flexible. While they may be unwilling to concede some points, they need to be able to compromise on others. A face-to-face sit down may be the best way to reach this compromise, and children can be included as well if they are old enough. Areas addressed might include video games, bedtimes and how children dress.
Immigrant families seek help with custody issues
Child custody issues can weigh heavily on the minds of many New Jersey families. Among the parents dealing with thorny issues of custody and child care in unexpected situations are undocumented immigrants concerned about their status. Legal clinics are helping these families to prepare custody paperwork in the event that the parents face detention or deportation.
