What About the Kids, Indeed

What About the Kids, Indeed

Topic: Family Law May 16, 2017 by Jim Jeffcott

My experience in working with families over many years is that they will always profess to have the interests of their children at the top of mind when dealing with the issues arising from their separation. Despite that assertion however, we spend a lot of time dealing with disputes involving children and parenting issues. Often the outcomes for the children are not ideal.

My suggestion is typically that the parents consider speaking to a Family Relations Professional to address the parenting issues between themselves. I believe that they will be better served dealing with those issues with someone that has appropriate skills and training  In addition, I often recommend that they consider having the children speak to a therapist or counsellor as well. They may also wish to speak to a counsellor themselves and consult resources or consider taking courses about parenting after separation.  There are innumerable options available.

It is important for the parties to recognize that separation is a difficult time and the way that they manage it with the children is likely to have a significant impact on the future for their children.

I recently read an article by Dr. Debra Dupree, a marriage and family therapist (http://collaborativefamilylawsandiegoblog.com/what-about-the-kids), on some important considerations regarding children on separation. While Dr. Dupree’s article does not contain anything new or groundbreaking, it is a good read to remind oneself of the importance of being child centered when going through a separation.

If you have any questions regarding separation and children, or any other family law matter, please contact any member of the LMR Family Law Group and we will do our best to assist.

James Jeffcott – Partner

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