SHOULD SHARED PARENTING BE THE STANDARD AFTER DIVORCE?

by Van Den Heuvel Law Office

What’s the best living arrangement for the kids after divorce? This is one of the most common questions we hear when it comes to parents with children that are splitting up. Almost all parents want what’s best for their children but many parents are divided as to whether or not kids should live with just one parent instead of two. There are many possible answers to this question but recently more and more research has suggested that when kids spend time living with both parents they are better off than when they live exclusively with just one.

According to studies losing a parent is one of the most traumatic experiences a child can go through, which essentially is what occurs when courts give sole custody to one parent in divorce. When children have the input and influence of both their parents they tend to do better emotionally than when they only have that contact with one parent. Other studies have shown that kids of divorced parents that maintain close ties with both their parents do better in school, stay away from abusive substances and are generally happier and less depressed than those children with a single parent.

There are always many factors to consider when determining child custody after divorce. No two situations are exactly the same either. One solution that works great for one family, might not work at all for a different family. The fact is there is not one right answer for every situation, but the latest research does appear to show that when ex couples can put their differences aside and allow their children to spend time living with both parents, their children seem to adjust better to life after divorce. According to this latest study, they also experience more stress when they live with just one parent instead of both.

These can be very difficult matters to sort out and it’s important that you have all the facts and weigh all the factors before you make any important decisions. It’s also a very good idea to meet with an experienced divorce and child custody attorney before you proceed. We work with parents in this situation every day and we understand that you have a lot on your plate. We help you sort through and weigh all your options and determine what course is the best in your situation. Our experienced child custody lawyers at the Van Den Heuvel Law Office in Grand Rapids will fight for you. Please click here to connect with us online, or give us a call at 616-698-0000.

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