Phoenix Arizona Family Law Blog

When Arizona parents separate these days, a common arrangement is shared parenting. Also known as co-parenting, this is a child custody arrangement in which both parents assume equal and joint responsibility of raising children even though the parents are legally separated. Although this type of custody agreement can be difficult, especially during a divorce, it is arguably the most beneficial custody arrangement for children.

Special efforts are needed by both parents in order to make co-parenting successful. Even if both parents understand the benefits of effective co-parenting, the emotional effects of divorce can make it a challenge. Parents should consider creating a parenting agreement. This makes the arrangement more of a business agreement, which could help to take emotions out of play when making decisions that will affect children.

It's estimated that about half of all marriages in the United States end in separation. Those going through this experience can be left emotionally and psychologically devastated. Social stereotypes often portray men as being the emotionally stronger sex, but this is not always the case. Fathers going through divorce may find themselves struggling and in need of support, but reluctant to seek help. The following advice could be helpful for fathers in Arizona going through the divorce process.

One of the most important things to do in any tense situation is to keep a level head and react rationally. Divorces are commonly high-conflict situations. Instead of engaging in battles, be flexible and learn to manage emotions. This benefits both parties and can make for a less strenuous divorce process, especially for children.

These days, it often takes the income of both parents to make sure the needs of the family are met. However, when parents separate, the household income can plummet and that can ultimately lead to the children going without basic necessities such as clothing or health care. Fortunately, Arizona has established a system of child support to ensure that the economic needs of children are met when parents split. Noncustodial parents who neglect child support payments can face hefty penalties such as driver's license suspension and even jail time. Most states offer some leniency when certain circumstances prevent parents from making child support payments.

One state in particular is offering a program to aid parents who have fallen behind on child support payments. Parents whose driver's license have been suspended due to nonpayment of child support can take advantage of the program to get back on track for their payments. The program is called "Back in the Driver's Seat."

The primary concern for most parents in Arizona is the well-being of their children. Because of this, child custody can be a big area of disagreement when parents decide to go their separate ways. It is not uncommon for lengthy child custody battles to be ignited over very minor disagreements. When parents are at odds in a viscous custody battle, the children suffer the most. To serve the best interests of the children and relieve any stress that children may have due to this situation, parents should always cooperate and work to resolve differences.

A child custody battle between Donald Trump Jr. and his soon-to-be former spouse made headlines recently, as the couple reportedly resolved their disputes. According to reports, a formal written agreement will be completed in the coming weeks. Reports said the judge congratulated them on working out their differences.