Joint custody is preferred by most courts since it allows a child to form close bonds with both parents. Even under the best of circumstances, co-parenting can still be a challenge, especially when it comes to logistical concerns. Parents Magazine offers the following tips in this case so you can navigate common issues with ease.
Many factors may impact a custody decision
When parents choose to split up, it is usually difficult to reach a fair and satisfying child custody arrangement. Even in instances where both parents try to work together for the best interests of the child, the process is often emotionally, physically and financially draining. If parents have significant disagreements about how to raise their child, resolving child custody can become frustrating and may lead to decisions that are destructive for everyone involved.
The divorced person's financial reality
If you are like many divorced or divorcing people in Indiana, you are aware that your financial situation is likely to be quite different after your divorce than it was while you were married. All of a sudden, two households must be supported on the same income amount that supported only one before. On top of that, you might be ordered to pay child support or spousal support every month. As much as you might want to join your friends for an evening out, you can feel pulled to stay in because you cannot afford the luxuries of going out as often as you used to.
Support for grandparents raising grandkids
For many adults in Indiana, they can look back on their lives with fond memories of at least one grandparent who played a special part in their life and development. The love that a grandmother or grandfather has for their grandchildren is special and the bond created between these generations can enhance the lives of both parties in unique ways. In most cases, it is expected that the grandparent can provide some education and nurturing without having to bear the responsibility of actually raising a child. However, for some families a grandparent does just this as well.