Raising a child is a sacred and difficult responsibility. Parents often have a kinship with each other right away because they understand each other’s hopes, fears and hard work. Anyone can become a parent, but it takes a special sort of person to become a good one.
The quality of parenting is often called into question when parents are divorcing. The act of separation leads to two or more possible paths for a child, and family courts in New Hampshire want to make sure that children have the best chance at safety and happiness. As a result, they may look at evidence of previous parenting behavior, and parents may present it.
Evidence of poor behavior may include assault or other degrading behavior. A mother is facing 45 years in jail after she was found guilty of beating her 3-year-old daughter to death. The Supreme Court in Concord rejected her appeal based on her statements to police before she was formally placed under arrest.
This is the latest development in a case that has altered New Hampshire’s approach to child protective services. The cases handled by that department often involve broken homes, parents who do not take proper responsibility or children who are in danger from relatives who do not properly value their safety.
Parents concerned for the safety of their children during or after divorce may seek the help of an attorney to represent their interests in court or other procedures. A lawyer can assist with the complicated processes of filing protective orders and other steps required when a child’s life or safety may be at risk.
