Each parent plays a considerable role in the lives of his or her children, and the state of Georgia recognizes this. Laws and tools are available to both parents that allow them to establish and maintain their parental relationships. The following is a set of considerations and tips that you should keep in mind as a father going through a divorce.
Father’s Rights
Many people have the assumption that courts are venues that favor women in matters involving child custody. However, these assumptions have been renounced by many judges and courts, giving fathers equal rights in asserting their roles in the family and the roles they wish to have in their children’s lives as they pertain to parenting time, child custody, important decision making, etc. Courts will objectively determine the most appropriate parental situation for children, regardless of either parent’s gender.
Co-parenting
Co-parenting is one of the most important things that parents can focus on following a divorce or separation. Both parents should be conscientious of maintaining amicable relationships with their former spouse for the sole benefit of their children. By co-parenting effectively, working parenting plans can be created and maintained. However, even with the best co-parenting plans in place, it is important to remember that your children may have two sets of rules; one set by you while in your custody and one set by your former spouse while in his or her custody.
Play an Active Role
Either you are a child’s parent or you are not. There is no middle ground. Regardless of how much time you can spend with your children, it is important to commit to it and to make sure it is quality time. This does not mean that you have to take your children on expensive trips and adventures. Simply spending time with them will bring happiness to your children during a stressful time. Use this time to strengthen the relationship and set the groundwork for continuing it after the divorce.
Best Interests of the Child
Georgia courts consider the best interests of the child when making any decision that involves a child, and you should, too. A father who is able to set aside any personal issue with a former spouse and co-parent effectively can provide a healthy family environment and the parenting time that children need. Instead of children seeing their parents argue or listening to one parent say inappropriate things about the other, the child will be surrounded by calm and caring parents providing love and support. This will help the children adjust to the new family set up as well as positively foster relationships moving forward.
If you are a father considering a divorce, please contact the experienced attorneys at Vayman & Teitelbaum. Our team understands the issues unique to a father and can help you navigate through this difficult time. We will work with you to develop a strategy and plan that it best for you and your children.
