Divorce With Young Children


When a couple has young children and gets divorced, one of the paramount concerns is for the needs and interests of the children. Often, parties are unable to agree on what is best for the children. One party may believe that the children should live primarily with one parent, while the other parent may believe that the children's time should be spent equally between the homes of both parents. While the judge has wide discretion in fashioning the parenting plan, it is extremely important to put on a persuasive case as to why your requested parenting schedule is best for the child. At the Law Office of Silverman, Mack & Associates, our divorce lawyers can help you make the best decision for your children.

Divorce Lawyers & Divorces With Children

When fashioning a parenting schedule for young children, it is important to keep in mind the length of time the parenting schedule will be in effect. The needs of younger children are significantly different from the needs of older children. It may be beneficial to the parties to have a graduated parenting plan that includes a transition period for the children or provides for a different schedule as the children grow older. It is important to have a family law attorney on your side who is well versed in Florida law to advocate for your requested time-sharing plan in court.  

Additionally, there may be situations involving alcohol, drug abuse, or domestic violence where a parent needs an advocate in court for his/her position. Or, there may be a situation with false allegations of abuse that must be defended. When the parties have young children, these issues may be difficult to prove in court because it is a “he said/she said” situation.  

Certain cases may need the help of a custody evaluator or guardian ad litem. It may be beneficial for a neutral third-party to be involved with a mental health background in order to recommend a parenting plan for the court. Other times, it may be better to avoid the delay that the appointment of a custody evaluator or guardian ad litem will often require.  

All of these important issues should be discussed with divorce attorneys. Contact one of our family law attorneys for a free initial consultation to discuss your case and determine your legal rights.

Calculating Child Support & Alimony

Child support and alimony (spousal support) in the state of Florida are calculated on a case-by-case basis. In most cases, a court of law will consider the following when determining 1) if child support and alimony is necessary and 2) the specified amount of child support and alimony.

  • The needs and desires of the child (this may include educational expenses, extracurricular activities, travel expenses, and health care insurance)
  • The assets and income of the custodial and noncustodial parent
  • The standard of living of the child and custodial parent before the divorce (in most cases, family courts seek to preserve the lifestyle that was maintained before the divorce to prevent children from experiencing excess changes)

Emotional Support for Children Coping With Divorce

The effects of divorce on children can be devastating. Children grow accustomed to their circumstances, and sudden adjustments may contribute to uneasiness, sadness, and even behavioral problems. Children of divorced parents often experience trouble adapting to the new dynamics of the family and/or the change of lifestyle after their parents gain a divorce. Often, they feel as if they have to choose between their parents. This can make children of divorce feel guilty and uncomfortable. In order to help kids coping with divorce, you should be patient, clear and understanding.

How to Tell Your Kids About Divorce:

  • Explain to the child that he/she is loved by both parents
  • Ensure that the child knows that the divorce is not a result of his/her words, behavior and/or mere existence
  • Explain what differences the child may encounter during and after a divorce
  • Ask the child what he/she wants. Include the child in some of the decisions that govern his/her placement and mobility.

For more tips with providing emotional support for children coping with divorce, our family and divorce lawyers would be happy to assist you.

Do My Children Need a Lawyer?

In divorces where children are involved, courts typically prioritize the needs and interests of the children. The goal is to keep children safe and healthy. If there is reasonable suspicion or evidence of neglect and/or abuse within a home, a lawyer may be necessary to ensure that the child is placed with the parent that is responsible, kind, and capable of raising and providing for children without excess strain or burden.

 

For More Information,
Read Our Divorce with Children FAQs

 

Family Law Lawyers in Gainesville, FL

Divorces can be scary. Divorces with young children can be even more frightening. With the assistance of experienced family and divorce attorneys at the Law Office of Silverman, Mack & Associates, you can trust that your needs and the needs of your child will be protected and fought for.

We understand that divorces present financial, emotional and mental strain on children, and we will do everything within our legal power to prevent your children from experiencing trauma.

If you plan to get a divorce with children in Gainesville, FL, contact our empathetic law firm today.