Separating is tough, even for unmarried couples. When they have kids, things get even trickier. Custody and child support can become battlegrounds for arguments and hurt feelings.
Dive into why this happens and who might have the upper hand in these disputes.
The battlegrounds
Custody battles are often emotionally charged. Each parent usually wants what they think is best for their child. But disagreements about where the child should live or who gets to make decisions can turn into big fights. Sometimes, parents cannot agree on a custody arrangement, and that is when things can get messy.
When it comes to child support, one parent might think the other should pay more, while the other disagrees. Figuring out who should pay how much can lead to heated arguments and legal battles.
Deciding factors
So, who is more likely to win in these fights? Well, it depends on a few factors. Courts usually decide custody based on the child’s best interests.
They look at things like the parent-child relationships, the child’s needs and each parent’s ability to care for the child. If one parent has been the primary caregiver or can provide a more stable home environment, they might have a better chance of winning custody. Courts also consider each parent’s willingness to foster a healthy relationship between the child and the other parent.
Several factors might prevent a parent from getting child custody. These include a history of neglect, abuse, substance abuse issues or mental health concerns.
When it comes to child support, courts consider each parent’s income and financial responsibilities. The parent with higher earnings might have to pay more in child support. However, if one parent proves that the other is not contributing financially, they might win a higher support amount.
The goal
The thing is, winning should not be the main goal. Instead, focus on what is best for the child. Sometimes, shared custody or reaching a fair agreement on support is the best outcome for everyone involved. Parents should communicate and try to find common ground, even if things feel tough.
Considerations
After a court order is in place, you cannot change it unless there is a significant change in circumstances. Uninformed parents who are unaware of their rights often sign binding agreements they later regret.
Resolutions
If couples cannot agree, courts will decide, and neither parent may like the outcome. Mediation through a neutral third party can help couples find common ground and develop a parenting plan that meets the needs of both parents and, most importantly, the child.
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