No parent wants the events of their personal lives to impact their children, but the reality of divorce is that it affects every family member. From the moment you know divorce is imminent, you will make decision after decision after decision, many of them affecting your kids.
For example, do you know where your children will live during the divorce? Have you worked out a fair parenting schedule with your spouse? Since both parents usually have the right to spend time with their kids, you must address custody and visitation while your divorce is pending. These strategies may help.
Informal agreement
Consider an informal, short-term agreement with your spouse that allows your children to spend meaningful time with both of you during the divorce. In most situations, it is generally best to address child-related matters together early, preferably before the emotions of divorce make cooperation difficult.
The agreement need not be permanent, but it can be incorporated into your formal divorce decree if it turns out to be an effective parenting tool.
Get help from the court
The court can help parents create a temporary child custody arrangement when cooperation is impossible. However, it is not an automatic process. You must petition the court for temporary custody orders and attend a special hearing. Parents must also submit proposed parenting plans and financial affidavits seven days before the scheduled hearing.
As with any formal proceeding, you must protect your rights during a hearing that might affect your children and your right to spend time with them. Obtaining up-to-date knowledge of New Hampshire family laws is a good first step to take.
