Parents with a child who has special needs are at a higher risk of experiencing marital strain, which can lead to a divorce. Divorces can be difficult for families at any time, but having a special needs child can complicate the process. Learn how to navigate the potential hurdles of a divorce with a special needs child.
Families going through a divorce will experience plenty of challenges in their daily lives, at least during the initial separation stages. While most children can adjust to a new situation, it may be different for a special needs child. A divorce will disrupt their stability and routines, complicating an already stressful process for both parents. Here are a few points to consider if you are going through a divorce and have a special needs child:
A parenting plan can ensure a child’s needs are met, especially for those who require extra care and support. With a plan, parents can make arrangements for housing, medical care, and education that align with the child’s best interests.
Some parents make special provisions in the divorce agreement that allows them to hire extra help to manage the child’s care. With that, it can help everyone from feeling overburdened or overwhelmed after a divorce. Whether this individual is a family friend or a trained medical professional, a helping hand can allow your child to adjust to the new way of life.
Divorcing parents will encounter several difficulties, including a decline in finances. If the child has special needs, these financial issues will become a bigger concern. Often, the child’s primary caregiver may have been unable to work outside the home, leaving the family with a reduced income. In some instances, both parents will pay for the ongoing costs of childcare so that one parent is not left with exorbitant expenses.
Providing for your child’s future care and financial support should be a top priority in any divorce settlement agreement. However, you may need to think about their care needs beyond the age of 18. Many people establish a special needs trust as part of their financial plan. These trusts allow the parents to reserve funds for the child’s care while preserving their eligibility for public assistance and government benefits.
A divorce with a special needs child is never easy, but you can take a few steps to ensure they have the best care throughout this challenging time. If you are in the process of a divorce and have children, a family law attorney can help you answer your questions about these unique circumstances.
When you need assistance with your divorce or family law matters, the legal team at Hankey Law Firm can deliver quality legal representation for your situation. With over 55 years of combined experience, Hankey Law Firm proudly serves the people of Cullman County, Blount County, Winston County, Madison County, Morgan County, and all residents across the great state of Alabama.
Contact us to discuss your case so that we can tailor your legal representation to your needs and goals. Schedule your confidential consultation today.
