Couples who are going through a divorce in Pennsylvania may have a better outcome if they learn from other peoples' mistakes. One error that many divorcing people make is choosing to take the matter to court because they think it is the only option available. In fact, divorcing spouses may instead opt to try and settle property division and child custody issues through negotiation, mediation or collaborative law.
How substance abuse problems may affect child custody
Pennsylvania parents who are going through a divorce often face a difficult decision when dealing with child custody and visitation, especially when their children are young. Even when they aren't necessarily the reasons why the marriage is ending, issues such as addiction or a history of substance abuse will be considered by the family court when making decisions about parental rights.
How child custody and support laws impact families
Pennsylvania parents who divorce might find themselves struggling with issues regarding their children. If they are unable to come to an accord regarding custody and visitation, the could will make the decision, following the principle of what will be in the best interests of the child. Unfortunately, some parents attempting to win child custody may leverage this doctrine to support their own arguments, and they might try to portray their ex-spouses unfavorably or lie to their children to alienate them from their other parent.
