Divorce can leave a significant impact on a child.

This doesn’t mean they’re all negative. In fact, lingering in a relationship that is running on fumes is a surefire way to leave a much worse impression on a child. This is a logical enough conclusion on the surface, but it’s hard to see logic when you’re in the thick of it all. As you file for divorce it’s important to admit when you’re starting to lose sight of the end goal. An attorney can help you with all things technical and emotional in your divorce proceedings.

Child-custody laws differ depending on the state and your unique situation. Here are the basics to help get you started.

The Changing Definition Of Child Custody

The function of child custody is to decide who will be the legal guardian of the child. It’s also used to make sure the family is on the same page when it comes to the child’s wellbeing. This can include, in some cases, child visitation rights. Figuring out who will take the child to the doctor and who will be in charge of the child should they be involved in legal trouble is all part of the process. According to recent statistics around 55% of mothers are awarded child support, with around 30% of fathers receiving the same.

Today’s Changing Divorce Statistics

Child-custody laws have been seeing significant changes. This is partially due to the increase in divorce rates in the United States. A recent study determined as many as 40% to 50% of all marriages in the country will end in divorce — subsequent marriages have an even higher rate, with third marriages 75% likely to end in a split. Learning about your options in light of a divorce is one of the smartest things you can do. Failing to provide your child with what they need now will become a problem down the road.

Common Concerns Shared By Parents

Will a divorce affect my child to connect with both parents? Will they resent me for ending the marriage? Family law firms today are well aware of the concerns that go into filling out divorce papers, even if this is your third time doing so. Divorce can absolutely have an impact on a child…but it’s often when the divorce is done sloppily. Make sure to talk to your child custody lawyer about custody hearings and visitation rights so your children are able to adapt as quickly as possible.

Important Differences Between Child-Custody Laws

The state you live in can have a significant impact on how long your child custody filing takes. It can also influence a few other factors. Washington, for example, has unique language used to refer to the act of child custody — visitations and custody are instead referred to as ‘arrangements’, with a family law judge required to form a proper schedule. New Mexico is a state that puts a more active approach on the child’s interests, involving them more frequently in the process. Your divorce attorney will walk you through these child-custody laws so you’re never left in the dark.

Reaching Out To Your Local Law Firm

It’s time to commit to a decision and get your life started sooner rather than later. Family law is a vast field that regularly tackles issues relating to restraining orders, child custody, asset relocation, property division, and counseling. Even if you’re not quite sure if you want to go all the way, meeting with an attorney and asking them a few questions can put things in perspective. Talk to them about how long you’ve been married and your concerns about the future. Figure out how long the process will take and what you need to do in the meantime.

Your child is best off knowing you’re doing everything you can to give them the highest quality of life possible. Talk to your lawyer about child-custody laws this week and start the first step on your journey.