Divorce is difficult under any circumstances, and even more so when children are involved. Whatever the reasons for deciding to end a relationship as a couple, everyone involved will still want what is in the best interests of their children. Parents may have faced some difficult conversations as they try to explain complex issues without overwhelming or frightening the children. As a separating couple, it can be understandably difficult to remain civil with each other. As parents, they may find that putting their differences aside “for the sake of the children” may result in multiple benefits, including where child support payments are concerned.
Statistics suggest that when noncustodial parents are allowed to maintain relationships with their children, the financial benefits to the custodial parent may also be improved. These statistics are national and not specific to the state of California and, of course, are based on many factors pertaining to personal circumstances such as marital status and employment. It is by no means a precise science. However, it does perhaps raise an interesting question: which comes first, the improved level of child support payments being received, or the continued noncustodial parent/child relationship?
It has been suggested that noncustodial parents who are allowed to remain a significant presence in the lives of their children may be more amenable to contributing toward their children’s welfare in other ways. Birthdays, holidays and other special occasions — even general help toward routine expenditures — all become easier when there is less contention between the parents. Anything which can assist in the smoothing of such a difficult time, for everyone, can only be of benefit.
Divorce and all its associated complexity need not increase the heartache that each person, child and adult, will already be experiencing. Many California parents find that divorce mediation offers an opportunity to focus on important issues like child support while also providing emotional support and reassurance to their children. Ultimately, this may be of benefit to all concerned and may allow everyone to move forward in a positive manner.
Source: newsroomamerica.com, More than $14 Billion In Child Support Payments To Custodial Parents Not Received, No author, Nov. 20, 2013
