On behalf of of Higdon, Hardy & Zuflacht, L.L.P. posted in collaborative law on Monday, February 27, 2017.
Divorces involving children can be taxing on both parents and kids. Litigating a divorce in a courtroom setting can have devastating results on Texas families. Using collaborative law to settle a divorce in a friendly, non combative environment, can have an everlasting positive effect on children and parents going through a divorce.
When parents decide that the marriage is no longer a sustainable one, the children involved can still benefit from decisions made by parents who put their kids needs and emotional responses first. Planning to inform the kids during a period when parents can spend time and the emotional energy to help their children adjust is just one aspect to consider. Living arrangements during separation, divorce and after can help all members of the family adjust to the upcoming changes. Some parents can remain under the same roof to allow time for children to grow accustom to the new family dynamic.
Limiting fighting and hurtful words about the other parent in front of the children will help kids feel safe to express their own feelings regarding the divorce. Parents should encourage children to ask questions and answer truthfully but with caution. Family or individual therapy can also help not only the children, but also the parents work through many unresolved issues and feelings.
By setting aside differences in favor of reaching a positive outcome, parents are modeling positive conflict resolution for their children. Collaborative law can help Texas parents reach a successful outcome in a divorce involving children. An attorney can help a client work toward a divorce agreement designed to stabilize family life for children and lay out clearly the rights and responsibilities of both parents.
Source: The Huffington Post, “7 Secrets For A Child-Centered Divorce“, Bari Zell Weinberger, Feb. 24, 2017