For Dads
Understanding the issues dads face in divorce
Children do best when they have strong and supported relationships with both of their parents. Your role is an important one, one that should be secured and supported. You do not have to get lost in the divorce and parenting plan processes. The court is guided by the “best interests of the child” principle. Whether we are working together to sort out your matters in court, mediation, or collaboration, we will make sure to uphold your priorities and work with you to put your children’s needs first.
You deserve an attorney who understands the importance of your role and the value you bring to your family. Our experienced family law attorneys will help you demonstrate the importance of your impact as a father to the court, mediator, and even to your ex.
PROVIDING FINANCIAL SUPPORT
Child Support
Both parents are required to support their child in Washington State. Child support is a means to provide financial support for your child as they grow. If you have questions about paying or receiving child support, one of our family law attorneys can assess your unique situation and provide guidance.
ESTABLISHING SEPARATE LIVES
Co-Parenting
If you have been raising your child together, then you are a co-parent. Two individuals trying to do what is in the best interests of their child are, by definition, co-parents. Co-parenting takes a little more practice and effort when the household is no longer intact and both parents have established separate lives.
The Following Are Actions You Can Take to Make Co-Parenting Easier for Everyone:
- Cooperate with the other parent when it is in the best interests of your child. You have taken on the role of Co-CEO of Team Child. You can manage your interactions with the other parent with a professional, almost business-like approach
- Make spending time with the other parent easy for your child
- Keep the other parent appropriately in-the-know about your child
- Time with your child is for your child; try to experience as much of their everyday life as possible
- Be honest with your children about the experiences they may have had without embellishment or distortion
- Expect your child to be upset about your divorce, help them process their feelings without being dismissive, and avoid putting them in between you and your ex or your disputes
- If your child needs some extra help, encourage them to participate in a divorce support group
- Do not weaponize visitation time or child support; it will only damage your long-term relationship with your child
- Discuss how and when you will introduce a new romantic partner to your children while creating your parenting plan
Have a life, have friends, interests, maybe even a therapist; you are modeling success for your child.
STAYING INVOLVED
Parallel Parenting
A PLAN FOR THE FUTURE
Working & Stay-at-Home Parents
Our team works with families where both parents have been working, where one has been working part-time, or where one parent stays home. No matter how your family has been supported financially, divorce can be a time of change.
Whether you have been staying at home or supporting your spouse in their parenting role, our experienced divorce attorneys can help you make a plan for the future to put your family’s economic security on track. We are here to help answer your questions, educate you about your options, and provide you the resources you need to plan for that next step.
EASING THE BURDEN
Estate Planning
As a dad, you have likely done everything you can to protect your children, to help ensure they can successfully transition to adulthood and thrive. Nothing can protect your children from the fact that one day you will no longer be with them. Investing in a comprehensive estate plan can help protect your minor child and their inheritance. A well-thought-out plan will allow your adult child to understand your wishes, ease their burden, and let them have time to focus on grieving.
Ensuring your estate plan is maintained and updated as your life changes are just as important as the initial creation. Our estate planning attorneys will work with you to determine the best tools to achieve your objectives and meet with you to make necessary adjustments.
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FURTHER READING
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