Keeping the Child’s Interests in Mind With Child Custody

When a couple in Spokane decides to end their relationship, it’s often not as simple as just parting ways and moving on with their lives. This is especially true when there are children in the relationship. In most cases, parents will want to do what is in the best interests of the child. That, however, doesn’t always coincide with what the parents want. Often, there are ancillary issues that arise when it comes to child custody and these can be difficult to navigate.

Having a grasp on what entails the child’s best interests can help to achieve that end.The best interests of the child are not believed to have to do with giving the child gifts or whatever they want as a means to “make up” for the parents parting ways. It has to do with giving them all they need for positive development, agreeing on living arrangements, sharing parenting duties and adhering to the child’s basic needs. That includes clothing, feeding and a proper place to live when the child is with either parent.

Parents might not be focused on the children during the time that the relationship is ending and they are trying to organize their lives separate from one another. It can be difficult for the parents to adjust to the new circumstances just as it is difficult for the child to adapt to it. The parents might tend to think of themselves when the child also needs to be taken into account. Not only does the child have to have the basic needs met, but there are also emotions, psychology, social connection, spiritual and moral requirements that have to be paid attention to. In some cases, there are issues within the relationship such as abuse that must be examined.

Parents who are ending their relationship – whether they are married or not – might be tempted to take part in a child custody dispute. The relationship with children can be damaged for both parties and, more importantly, the child can be negatively affected by child custody disagreements. When facing child custody issues, a legal professional can assist parents with seeking and achieving the best interests of all involved regardless of the circumstances.

Source: psychologytoday.com, “What Exactly Is ‘The Best Interest Of The Child’?,” Edward Kruk, Feb. 22, 2015