What Will Happen To My Kids If I File For Divorce?…

How can I do this alone? Will I have enough money to keep my house? Will I have to go back to work full time? Will I have to give her/him all my money? What about my kids? How can I do this to my kids? Am I only going to see them on weekends? What about the holidays? Many people have probably asked themselves these same questions when contemplating getting a divorce. Especially if they have kids. Parent guilt is real. Many of those same people have talked themselves out of a divorce because of their kids. “Oh, I will just stick it out until they get a little older and can understand,” then later becomes, “ I will just stay until they go to college,” and before you know it, years have gone by. Years that you cannot get back. Years that you will look back on and possibly regret. Years that you know you would have been happier if you had gotten that divorce. There would have been more smiling and less crying. More enjoyment of your children, rather than arguing with your spouse. Parent guilt should not dictate IF and WHEN you file for divorce. While it is not a decision to be taken lightly, or rushed into without knowing your options, it is not a decision that should be led by guilt.

“Guilt doesn't care whether you twisted over the decision to divorce for weeks, months or even years. Guilt doesn't take into account the amount of courage it may have taken you to finally decide to divorce yourself from a marriage that had already been dead for years. But guilt is not the truth.” (HuffPost Article)

In fact, kids are extremely resilient and can handle far more than people give them credit for. They will react based on how you react. Remember that it’s okay to not be perfect. It is okay to make mistakes. It is okay to act in your best interest sometimes. Because when you do, your children will be the ones who benefit.

“Kids need to see that their parents can experience difficult emotions and still get through them. You can’t be everything to everyone all the time, and showing your kids resilience through vulnerability gives them the tools and confidence to manage the bumps they may experience in their own lives going forward.” (Divorced Moms Article)

About the Author

Ashley Ackerman is an attorney with 8 years of experience working as an Assistant State Attorney for the 15th Judicial Circuit. Much of her time was spent advocating for victims of domestic violence. She has handled over 60 jury trials, with cases ranging from domestic battery to attempted murder.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Florida determine child custody?

Florida courts determine timesharing based on the best interests of the child, considering factors such as each parent's ability to provide stability, the child's relationship with each parent, and each parent's willingness to support the child's relationship with the other parent.

What is the difference between parental responsibility and timesharing in Florida?

Parental responsibility refers to decision-making authority over major life decisions like education and healthcare. Timesharing refers to where the child physically lives. Florida courts generally favor shared parental responsibility and equitable timesharing.

Can a child choose which parent to live with in Florida?

Florida courts may consider a child's preference, particularly if the child is mature enough to make an informed decision. However, the court always prioritizes the child's best interests over preference alone.

What happens if my ex violates our parenting plan?

If your ex violates the court-ordered parenting plan, you can file a motion for enforcement with the court. Consequences can include makeup timesharing, modification of the plan, or even contempt of court charges depending on the severity of the violation.

If you're facing a family law matter in South Florida, the experienced attorneys at Yaffa Family Law Group's Child Custody & Divorce practice are here to help. Our team understands Florida family law and can guide you through every step. View all our practice areas or contact us today for a confidential consultation.

What Will Happen To My Kids If I File For Divorce? Parent Guilt Shouldn’t Dictate

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Florida determine child custody?

What is the difference between parental responsibility and timesharing in Florida?

Can a child choose which parent to live with in Florida?

What happens if my ex violates our parenting plan?

Free Guide: 10 Things To Do Before Filing For Divorce

Doreen Yaffa

Table of Contents

Facing a Family Law Matter?

Related Articles

How Single Parenting Affects a Child: Navigating the Journey with Love and Understanding

Dissolution of Marriage with Property and No Minor or Dependent Children

Dissolution of Marriage with Children

Main Office

Phone

Email