Conflict is inevitable during divorce, but some disputes tend to be more emotionally charged than others. Custody issues, in particular, tend to raise tempers, with otherwise agreeable parents bickering about where their children will spend the majority of their time. These disputes can vary considerably from one family to the next, but a few patterns tend to hold strong:
Perceived Irresponsibility of One or More Parents
Often, parents resist granting partial custody to the other party because they firmly believe that this person is too irresponsible to properly care for their children. The reasoning behind this assumption can vary, with concerned parents commonly citing the following problematic behaviors:
- Criminal activity
- Drug or alcohol abuse
- Party lifestyle
- Domestic abuse
- Child neglect
Desire for Revenge
Occasionally, parents may use the alleged irresponsibility of the other person as a front to cover the real issue at play: a strong desire for vengeance. For example, if one person’s infidelity prompted the divorce, the other may attempt to deliver punishment in the form of a custody battle. This approach rarely offers the satisfaction angry parents desire, and what’s more, it causes undue stress and anxiety for the child at the center of the dispute.
Asserting Paternity Rights
Divorcing fathers often assume that courts will automatically hand custody to the mother. In reality, Minnesota courts deem it in the child’s best interest to maintain strong relationships with both parents. Still, common misconceptions regarding paternity may lead divorcing fathers to take a more aggressive approach.
No matter the circumstances underlying your current custody battle, you deserve support from a family attorney who cares. The team at the law firm of Barna, Guzy & Steffen, Ltd. is happy to help. Reach out today to learn more about our approach to child custody and parenting time.