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The Necessity of a Parent/Child Relationship
Divorce may be what is best for you and your spouse, but your children may feel the effects of your divorce for years to come. With parents that are no longer together, the necessity of maintaining a relationship with their children becomes incredibly important. But keeping visits both regular and meaningful can be challenging with the necessities of life calling. Here are some reasons why this relationship should be a focus for a visiting parent.
Studies Done on the Benefits of a Relationship
Many studies have been conducted in order to verify that children benefit from a relationship with both their mother and their father. These studies have shown that an active relationship with both parents can actually provide children with social, psychological, and health benefits.
Studies in the National Journal of Medicine have also shown that children with an active relationship with their father feel less stress and feel more comfortable discussing issues with friends.
Studies Done on the Drawbacks of No Relationship
Conversely, studies have also been conducted on children where only one parent (usually the mother) is present in their lives. These studies have shown that a child without an active father in their life can lead to feelings of rejection and a heightened sensitivity to parental issues.
A lack of parental involvement from both parents can send a child down a road that may lead to problems in their adolescence and adulthood, sometimes characterized by poor decisions during these periods.
Intentional Planning
Because of the importance of an active relationship between children and both parents, it is crucial that divorcing parents work out an agreement that allows for visitation and enables this type of relationship. With the help of an attorney to guide the process, parents can work out a scenario that allows for both parents to spend time with their children.
In Texas, visitation is referred to as a possession order, which simply means that there is a schedule in place allowing each parent “possession” of a child. It is possible to work out a solution between both parents without stepping foot in court, provided that they are willing to cooperate and work out an amicable solution benefiting both parties. When this is impossible, however, it is then up to a Texas judge presiding over the case.
Best Interests of the Child
A judge will ultimately make a possession order that is based upon what is in the best interest of the child. However, Texas does have several provisions in place to help guide a judge’s decision.
Standard Possession Order
A Standard Possession Order, for example, is presumed to be the best option to meet a child’s needs if they are 3 or older. This order allows for a visitation schedule based upon the parents’ agreement over a visit. If not, then the non-custodial parent is given the right to possession at certain times, such as Thursday evenings during the school year or alternating holidays.
If a Standard Possession Order is not in the child’s best interest, then a judge could order a Modified Possession Order that is based on the child’s needs. For example, a Modified Possession Order could give one parent a two-week span and then alternate a two-week span to the other parent, therefore giving the child equal time with both parents.
Seeking Help for Texas Possession Cases
Working out a solution that gives your child the best possible outcome is crucial to ensuring their growth and development. If you feel that your child would benefit from a different agreement than what may be proposed, you have the right to seek an alternative through the help of legal representation. At Young Law Firm, we treat each case as a unique case and an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of our clients. We aim to do the same for you.
Contact our firm today at (254) 774-1996 or visit us online to schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys.
