A divorce is often difficult for the entire family. Whether you have biological or adopted children in Maryland or the D.C. area, it’s no different. You should know how to handle going through your divorce when you have adopted children.
You and your ex maintain your relationships with your child
When you have an adopted child, the situation is the same when you and your spouse get a divorce. You and your ex maintain the same parental relationship that you enjoyed before the split. Your child has a right to spend quality time with both parents and has the same legal rights as a biological child.
You and your ex can both seek child custody
You and your former spouse will want to gain child custody from the family court. The court will determine whether you or your ex will get joint custody of your child or if it’s more appropriate for a sole custody arrangement to be made. The top priority of the court is always what’s in the best interests of the child.
A child support order will be decided
Adopted children have the right to be financially supported by their parents after a divorce. This is no different from a biological child’s rights. The court will look at the circumstances between you and your ex and determine who will pay child support and decide on an amount for payments.
A parenting plan will be decided
You and your former spouse may want to rationally discuss a co-parenting plan during your divorce. If you can come to an agreement that works for both of you on how you will continue to raise your child in spite of no longer being married, things will be easier for all of you. If you are unable to reach an agreement together, you might want to consider mediation to help.
Divorce isn’t easy, especially when children are involved. However, things can be easier when you work together.