Many adults grew up with divorced parents, and in many of those families the mother was often the primary custodial parent and time spent with dad took place every other weekend and on holidays. But in the past couple of decades, custodial preferences have changed and many divorcing parents choose to co-parent through a co-parenting agreement.
Advantages of Co-Parenting
It can be positive for the parent and child’s wellbeing to spend time quality time together. Many studies have reported that children spending time with supportive co-parents means they will likely do better academically and are less prone to engage in negative behaviors such as smoking and drinking alcohol.
There are legal parental rights in place for both parents. Of course, if harm is being done, emotionally or physically, parental time will be restricted. But if both parents are supportive and are committed to the best interests of the kids, share parenting will have many advantages, including the following:
- Kids are able to have ongoing relationships with each side of their family
- There is support and guidance from each adult
- Less likely for children to experience anxiety and depression
- School success is more likely
- Each parent gets some time to recharge and enjoy adult time while the child spends time with the other parent
- Parents are exhibiting healthy communication and cooperation skills
Creating a parenting plan can help with communication. For instance, if you do not want to have conversations with your ex-spouse, the two of you can agree to a timesharing schedule and a way to communicate should there be a need to adjust a drop-off time or pick-up location. Text, emails, or co-parenting apps are all good options for short forms of communication that will not require long discussions that could unearth old disputes.
How to Seek Support Payments
While a parenting plan will be part of the process, the financial assessment of your divorce negotiations will be where support payments are addressed. Spousal maintenance and child support payments could be possible if your spouse earns a lot more than you do now and has high future earning potential for the future. Maintenance payments are awarded to husbands and wives every day. To learn if payments are possible for you, talk to a Tampa family lawyer.
Are you a Florida parent who believes your spouse is pursuing a parenting plan that does not give you equal time? Share your concerns and objectives with an experienced family attorney. Legal professionals have the knowledge you need and are available to help.
