Cases that involve child custody are often very difficult for parents to work through simply because the thought of having to share the child is unpleasant. Unfortunately, when you and your ex divorce or end your relationship, this is what is going to happen.
We recently discussed the importance of establishing paternity. If you recall, this can help fathers to be able to assert their parenting rights. It can also help mothers if they need to seek child support.
One thing that many parents might not realize is that they have the option of working out a child custody agreement together. This puts the two people who know the child the best in charge of what will happen.
If you and your ex are going to try to work things out, make sure that you are thinking of your child’s best interests. You can’t focus on what will make life difficult for your ex or what will be the easiest for you. Instead, you have to put your child first.
We can help you determine what aspects of child custody must be decided upon. Some of the common terms that must be reached include the child custody schedule (which includes plans for holidays and summer vacation), and decision making powers (including who makes education, health care, and faith practices decisions for the child.) Other points might also be necessary to address.
We understand that this might seem like a lot to think about, but taking the time to discuss these matters now might help to make your parenting journey a bit easier down the road.