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The stresses of raising a special needs child can significantly impact a marriage, often intensifying existing issues and leading to divorce. As divorcing spouses navigate this challenging process, their decisions can profoundly affect their special needs child. Choosing a knowledgeable special needs family law attorney is essential to ensure that the child’s best interests remain a priority during the divorce. Understanding the unique dynamics of parenting a special needs child can help spouses make informed choices that support their child’s well-being amid the emotional turmoil of divorce.
The Importance of Stability and Cooperation
To start, a special needs child’s pre-divorce emotional and behavioral issues will intensify. The child may feel that his or her actions have caused their parents to no longer live together. A divorce will obviously cause a great deal of instability for the child. So, Consistency and stability for a special needs child (or any child for that matter) are incredibly important.
A parent could also use the disability as a bargaining chip during custody negotiations. The parent who has provided “better” care, administered medicines, or attended doctor’s visits can and most likely will use this to strengthen their case for more time with the child.
Lastly, parents’ possible disagreement regarding the diagnosis of the child can be an issue as well. Suppose one parent denies the severity of the condition while the other advocates and cares for the child. In a situation like this, a court may appoint a specialist. The specialist will assess the child’s needs and recommend the parent best suited to provide that care.
Both parents need to carefully consider and plan possession schedules for a special needs child. Moving the child from house to house on a frequent basis can rob the family of the ability to provide the sort of comfort that is necessary to combat their disability.
Collaborative Co-Parenting: Supporting Special Needs Children After Divorce
Special needs family law attorneys encourage divorcing spouses to collaborate post-divorce. This is to provide a united front regarding treatment options and day-to-day living conditions. Whether the child needs outside assistance in the form of a live-in nurse or care provider, medicines not covered by insurance and educational questions, are all relevant considerations.
Special needs children may also require above guideline child support or child support beyond age 18, depending on the severity of the condition.
Conclusion
The challenges of raising a special needs child can strain a marriage and contribute to divorce. It is essential for divorcing spouses to recognize the impact their decisions will have on their child’s future and well-being. By working with a qualified special needs family law attorney, parents can navigate the complexities of divorce while prioritizing their child’s needs. This thoughtful approach can help ensure that the unique requirements of a special needs child are addressed, ultimately fostering a supportive environment for their growth and development as the family transitions through this difficult time.
At The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, our attorneys are ready to assist parents in establishing a solid foundation for a family with a special needs child, demonstrating both strong advocacy skills and compassion.
Other Articles you may be interested in:
- Child Support for Special Needs Children in Texas
- Custody Challenges for Families of Special Needs Children in Texas
- Children with Special Needs and Custody Arrangements in Texas: A Comprehensive Guide
- Know How Children’s Issues are Handled When Preparing for Your Texas Divorce
- 11 Things You Must Know About Texas Child Custody
- Can I get child support while my Texas divorce is pending?
- Do I Have to Pay Child Support if I Have Joint Custody of My Child in Texas?
- Can I Sue My Ex for Retroactive or Back Child Support in Texas?
- Child Support and College Tuition in Texas
- Texas Child Support Appeals
Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC | Spring Divorce Lawyer
The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC routinely handles matters that affect children and families. If you have questions regarding divorce, it’s important to speak with a Spring, TX Divorce Lawyer right away to protect your rights.
Our divorce lawyer in Spring TX are skilled at listening to your goals during this trying process and developing a strategy to meet those goals. Contact Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC by calling (281) 810-9760 or submit your contact information in our online form.
