Dads and Divorce: 3 Tips for Success After the Split

 Posted on July 11, 2022 in Divorce

In today’s world, there is no such thing as a “typical” divorce. There are many ways a couple can end their marriage, and the outcomes will change depending on the needs of each family. Some families are still traditional in the sense that the mother is the primary caregiver and is the one who spends the most time with the children. In other families, fathers are more involved in raising their children, which can cause tension and stress when it comes to making child-centered decisions during a divorce.

Though the law states that both mothers and fathers should be treated equally, fathers are sometimes still seen as “second-class” parents, and some dads feel that they are not given the same consideration as mothers when it comes to issues such as time with their children. Divorce can be difficult for everyone, but its negative effects may be especially worrisome for fathers. Here are a few tips to help dads aim for success during and after a divorce:

Be Proactive

When you are involved in custody disputes in the Texas court system, things become slightly more complicated. You will need to prove to the judge that you deserve to have just as much time with your child as your ex, if not more. To demonstrate this, you should be involved in your children’s lives and be sure to confer with your ex about things like doctor’s appointments, extracurricular activities, and school progress. The goal is to prove to the judge that you contribute more to your children’s lives than just picking them up and dropping them off.

Keep Things as Civil as Possible

Fighting with your ex will rarely be beneficial. When it comes to divorce and children, hostility or anger will make it even more difficult to make a good impression to the judge. Arguing with your ex will do nothing but make everyone even more stressed and upset. Trying to work together with your ex to find mutually agreeable solutions is the way to get what you want, even if you have to make some sacrifices during the negotiations.

Stay Connected, Even When You Are Away

Following your divorce, you will not be able to spend as much time with your children as you did when you were married. Depending on your parenting arrangement, you could go days or even weeks without seeing your children. Keeping in touch with your children even when they are not in your custody is important, and you may want to ensure that your parenting plan addresses when and how you will be able to communicate with your children during the other parent’s parenting time.  

A Collin County Divorce Attorney Can Help With Child-Related Issues

Issues such as parenting time and decision-making responsibilities can be some of the most contentious matters to resolve in a divorce. As a father, you have the right to fight for time with your children deserve, and our skilled Frisco divorce lawyer can help. At the Pfister Family Law, we have the knowledge and experience to help you get the most out of your divorce, especially when it comes to child-related issues. To schedule an initial consultation, call our office today at 972-954-6455.

Sources:

https://www.fatherly.com/love-money/7-tips-dads-need-to-know-about-custody-before-filing-for-divorce/

https://www.verywellfamily.com/keys-for-success-as-divorced-dad-1270180

https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/FA/htm/FA.153.htm