Fathers and The Importance of Having Parenting/Visitation Time
April 11, 2023
As a father your parenting time, also known as custody/visitation, is an essential aspect of your child's development and overall well-being. It is so important for you as a father to have regular parenting time with your child for several reasons.
First and foremost, your child benefits from having a strong and loving relationship with both parents. Research has shown that children who have a positive relationship with both parents have better outcomes in terms of their emotional and mental health. They are less likely to experience serious behavioral problems and have higher self-esteem. Your child can also fare better academically and is more likely to be successful in their relationships and careers as adults.
Furthermore, parenting time allows you as a father to be actively involved in your child's life. You can be a part of important milestones, such as birthdays, holidays, and school events. You can also be a source of support and guidance for your child as they navigate different stages of development.
Additionally, parenting time can also be beneficial for your well-being. Being a present parent can bring a great sense of purpose and fulfillment, and it can help to strengthen your bond as father and child. It can also be a way for you as a father to deal with the stress and emotional turmoil that often comes with the end of a relationship.
In Maryland, the court takes the best interest of the child into consideration when determining parenting time. They consider factors such as the child's age, the child's relationship with each parent, and the parents' work schedule. It is important for fathers to advocate for themselves and their relationship with their child and to work with a great divorce and collaborative lawyer like Cherise L Williams of the Law Office of Cherise L Williams LLC to ensure you receive fair and appropriate parenting time with your child.
Custody battles can be emotionally taxing, especially in high-conflict cases. Many parents don’t realize that courts in Maryland and Washington, D.C. may appoint a Best Interest Attorney (BIA) to represent the child's needs in these disputes. If you're going through a contested custody case, understanding the role of a BIA is crucial to navigating the process effectively. What is a Best Interest Attorney? A Best Interest Attorney is a court-appointed lawyer who represents the best interests of a child in contested custody cases. Unlike a lawyer for an adult client, a BIA does not take direct instructions from the child but instead advocates for what would best serve their well-being. In Maryland and D.C., courts may assign a BIA when: Parents have significantly different views on custody arrangements. There are allegations of abuse, neglect, or parental alienation. The child’s safety and welfare are in question. There is a high level of conflict between parents, making it difficult to reach agreements. How a Best Interest Attorney Impacts Your Case A BIA plays a vital role in custody disputes. Their responsibilities may include: Investigating both parents’ living situations and relationships with the child. Interviewing the child (if appropriate) to understand their needs and concerns. Speaking with teachers, doctors, and other professionals involved in the child's life. Reviewing court documents and filings to form a well-rounded perspective. Making recommendations to the court regarding custody, visitation, and parental decision-making. It’s important to note that a BIA’s recommendations can significantly influence the court’s final decision. Judges rely on these attorneys to provide an unbiased assessment of the child's best interests. Should You Request a Best Interest Attorney? If you’re facing a contentious custody battle, you may wonder whether requesting a BIA is beneficial. In some cases, the court may appoint one without a parent’s request. However, if you believe your child’s well-being is at stake, speaking with your own family law attorney about requesting a BIA could be a strategic move. How to Work With a Best Interest Attorney If a BIA has been assigned to your case, you can: Cooperate fully during the investigation. Provide documentation and references that highlight your parenting capabilities. Avoid negative comments about the other parent, as BIAs look for evidence of co-parenting cooperation. Work closely with your child custody lawyer to ensure your case is presented effectively. Understanding the role of a Best Interest Attorney in Maryland and Washington, D.C. child custody cases can help you make informed decisions during your legal journey. If you're dealing with a high-conflict custody dispute, having an experienced family law attorney in Rockville, MD or Washington DC can make all the difference. If you need legal guidance, contact The Law Office of Cherise L. Williams today to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help protect your rights—and your child’s future.
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