Photo of Drew Wood

When divorce is better for the children

On Behalf of | Nov 16, 2017 | Divorce |

Florida parents might be considering putting off their divorce because they are concerned about how it might affect their child’s emotional state or even the likelihood that their child will attend college. Studies show that a child of divorced parents may also be more likely to get a divorce. However, there may be some cases in which getting a divorce is the right decision.

For example, if the relationship is abusive, divorce might be the right choice. Parents might also be unable to hide their conflict and unhappiness from their children. They might have tried counseling and made other efforts to fix the relationship without success. Unhappiness in the marriage can cause anxiety for children, so it might be in their best interest to go ahead with a divorce.

On the other hand, parents should make sure they have made a good effort at fixing their problems before making the decision. They might weigh the cost and benefits of divorce and find that the costs are greater. However, they should also be prepared for the sacrifices they might be making. Staying together could mean postponing a more fulfilling life and relationship.

Having taken all the factors into account, parents may decide that divorce is right for them. They may still be able to mitigate its effect on their children by trying to work together to find a good solution for custody and visitation. Divorce does not always mean walking into the adversarial atmosphere of a courtroom. Parents might be able to reach a child custody agreement with the help of their respective attorneys as well as an agreement about property division. Even if this negotiation is not successful, they might try mediation.