Protecting Children During A Divorce

The worst part about a divorce is that it affects more than just two people. Couples who have children understand how difficult a divorce proceeding becomes once their children become involved. The biggest dilemma is that you can’t tell them directly and you can’t ignore them either. Moreover, different kids react differently and then there is their age that needs to be considered. Handling and protecting children should be the number one priority for parents in a divorce. In California, a child’s preference is given importance when making decisions related to custody.

Keep things normal

It’s tough to act normal when you know you’re heading for a sure-shot divorce but do it for the sake of the kids. Or at least when your kids are around, make sure that you don’t break into arguments and fights. Children are highly prone to mental trauma and the worst part is sometimes you won’t even know that are suffering from mental stress.

Don’t divide the children

You might be heading for a separation but your children are not. It’s true that your children will stay with only one of you but that does not mean they should get the feeling that they have been separated too. Keep things amicable between you and your partner and create a good plan of action.

Protect them

Protecting your children both emotionally and financially should be your primary duty as a parent. Create a good child support plan and discuss visiting times with your partner. Make sure both of you agree to the same plan and stick to it. Try meeting as a family and go out together as much as you can.

Agree on the custody rights

Custody rights is an important issue and you must discuss it with your spouse before you go ahead with the divorce proceeding. It will be easier for the both of you if you know the result of the custody battle before the separation takes place.

Conclusion

Children are an important issue when it comes to divorce because a bad divorce causes stress and mental trauma on the young minds. As parents, it becomes your duty to protect your children from harm. Discuss issues like custody, visitation hours and child support with your partner before you decide to go ahead with the divorce. Work out a common plan which both of you are comfortable following. It will save your children from unnecessary damage.

Getting divorced in California can be complicated.  Download our free eBook, 18 Important Things to Know About California Divorce to educate yourself on the process.  

Gerald A. Maggio is an experienced Orange County divorce and family law attorney and family law attorney located in Irvine, California, serving the Orange County and Riverside areas. Mr. Maggio assists clients with legal issues including divorce, legal separation, divorce mediation, child custody, prenuptial agreements, stepparent adoptions, and other family law issues. Mr. Maggio has practiced law in California since 1999, and founded The Maggio Law Firm in 2005, focusing exclusively on divorce and family law matters.