For most Connecticut parents who are considering divorce, concerns over the impact the choice will have on their children is of primary import. Although some couples are able to handle the transition with grace and maturity, many child custody battles become extremely aggressive and embittered. Protecting one’s children from the negative aspects of these struggles is important, and can have a great deal of influence on how they handle the eventual divorce.
One way to lessen the impact of a child custody battle is to simply avoid bringing the children into discussions about the issue. Each parent should assure the children that they will not lose their connection with the other parent. It is also important to reassure them that the decision to divorce is an adult choice, and not the result of anything they have done or said.
In some cases, children may be required to work with a guardian ad litem or speak with the judge in order to make their wishes known to the court. In such cases, it is important to allow the kids to express their opinions freely. Children should never feel as if they will bring disappointment to either parent by what is said.
At the end of the day, a Connecticut family court judge is tasked with making a child custody determination that serves the best interests of the children involved. He or she will evaluate a wide range of evidence and testimony to inform that decision. Parents who are concerned about the outcome of a divorce and child custody case should focus their efforts on presenting a valid and well-reasoned legal argument, and allow their children to process the change in the family structure free from additional stress.
Source: Tahlequah Daily Press, “Focus on kids if divorce is imminent,” Rob W. Anderson, Jan. 10, 2013