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If you and your spouse have made the difficult decision to file for divorce, this can be a challenging process, particularly if you have children. While there are a range of important issues that you will need to resolve during the divorce process, including spousal support and the distribution of marital property, your children’s best interests are likely your top priority. Too often, however, couples cannot reach an agreement when it comes to custody and parenting issues, particularly if the divorce is contentious. In addition, when emotions are running high, parents may say or do something that can hurt their parental rights going forward. By keeping the following tactics in mind, you can protect your parental rights while navigating the divorce process.
Hire a Divorce Lawyer
One of the first and most essential steps to protect your legal and parental rights during a divorce is to retain a lawyer with experience negotiating complex custody and parenting issues. The sooner you schedule an initial consultation, the sooner you can discuss the unique challenges you are experiencing and determine the best course of action to protect your parental rights.
Maintain Communication With the Other Parent
While this can be easier said than done, it is in everyone’s best interest to communicate respectfully and productively. In some cases, hiring a mediator to help you address the key issues and recommend possible solutions, including parenting rights, may improve communication.
Abide By the Court’s Rulings
Too often, individuals fail to comply with the court’s order, which can negatively impact their parental rights and result in legal penalties. For example, if the custodial parent prevents the noncustodial parent from exercising their court-ordered parenting time because the noncustodial parent has fallen behind on child support payments, this violates an existing court order and may result in sanctions being imposed. In addition, if this behavior continues, the court may issue an order that awards custody to the other parent.
Make Every Effort to Co-Parent
Co-parenting is when divorced or separated parents agree to make a concerted effort to work together to raise their children. This can be challenging, depending on the nature of your relationship with your former spouse. It requires both of you to communicate regularly and discuss issues that affect your children, which can be difficult if you struggle to maintain a respectful and productive relationship. However, if your children’s best interests are your top priority, you should try to set aside your issues and focus on co-parenting your children.
Our Bergen County Divorce Lawyers at Torchin Martel Orr LLC Will Protect Your Parental Rights During the Divorce Process
If you and your spouse are getting a divorce and have questions or concerns about your parental rights and what steps you can take to protect them, contact our Bergen County divorce lawyers at Torchin Martel Orr LLC. We will help you navigate every step of the divorce process, discuss any issues you have particular concerns about, and negotiate the best possible settlement that protects your parental rights and prioritizes your children’s best interests. To schedule a consultation, call 201-971-4866 or complete our online form. Located in Paramus, New Jersey, we serve clients in Bergen County, Morris County, Essex County, Hudson County, and the surrounding towns in northern New Jersey.