When divorcing with children, your highest priority should be protecting the best interest of your children and there is no question, the Judge’s first priority will be the same. Often times in our practice and in an effort to have as little to no contact with one’s spouse, children will find themselves as the “go between” for their parents. This may happen inadvertently or on purpose but in either circumstance, such interactions with your children should be kept to a minimum, if not nonexistent. The more your children are involved in your divorce, the more they will be affected by it. They will retain negative feelings you express about your spouse or they may even harbor hostility for your spouse not knowing why they are doing so. Your children are entitled to a loving and healthy relationship with each of his or her parents.
Attempts to alienate your child(ren) from your spouse, will be met with disapproval from the court. More often than not, parents will agree to abide by the following language, in one form or another: “Neither parent shall do anything which may estrange the child from the other parent or attempt to discredit, cause disrespect or diminish the natural affection of the child for the other parent.” You and your spouse should take this dictate seriously. The Judge on your matter will be displeased to learn that your child(ren) knows just as much about your divorce as your divorce attorney.
It is important to protect your children during a divorce action and here at Shane and White we are dedicated to protecting your children and your relationship with your children. Please contact our office at 732-819-9100 to set up a consultation today.