As a parent, facing a divorce can be an overwhelming and uncertain time. When minor children are involved, you want to act in their interest and ensure that whatever needs they may have are properly met. When your child has special needs, the hardships of navigating a divorce are only intensified. Luckily, a Springfield, IL, divorce lawyer can help ensure that your child’s needs, and your own, are protected.
Divorce is never easy on a family. No matter their developmental maturity, kids can take divorce hard. When children with special needs are involved, a new dimension of difficulty regarding decisions like child custody, visitation, and negotiations of support is opened up. At Stange Law Firm, we can provide you with the care and compassion you deserve during this time.
Some of the ways that you can navigate a divorce with a special needs child include.
Gather and Organize All Necessary Documentation and Records
During the divorce proceedings, and even following the finalization of your agreement, you may need to refer to documentation detailing the expenses and needs of your special needs child. To reduce any chances of delays during this process and keep things running as smoothly as possible, it is wise to collect and organize any medical records or documentation pertaining to your child’s needs.
These documents might include:
- Receipts from hospital bills
- Statements of diagnosis
- Any email correspondence between yourself and your child’s healthcare providers that details treatment plans
- Any correspondence regarding the need for any special education programs for your child
- Any emails or text messages between yourself and a medical professional that discuss the status and nature of your child’s special needs
Lean Into Your Support System
Divorce itself can be a very sensitive and private aspect of an individual’s life. It can be understandable to want to keep the divorce proceedings to yourself during this time. However, having a support system that you can lean into and rely on, especially as a parent of a special needs child, can make all the difference for your own mental and emotional well-being throughout the duration of your divorce.
Some of the ways that you can take care of yourself include:
- Taking a night off from work
- Spending time with friends and family
- Attending counseling
- Finding and joining a divorce or special needs parent support group
Remember, to take care of those you love, including your children, you must first take care of yourself.
Discuss a Custody Arrangement for the Child
Generally, children can take time to adjust to the new life that begins during and after their parent’s divorce. They might face new surroundings, adjustments to their usual schedules, and disruptions to the life they once knew. This difficulty can be tenfold for children with special needs. When deciding on a custody arrangement for the child, parents should keep this aspect in mind.
For example, if your child attends therapy sessions during the week, it might be wise for the child to stay with one parent during the week. That way, they can regularly get to these appointments without having to worry about transitioning to a new schedule.
Be Sure That You Can Provide the Necessary Care If Your Push for Physical Custody
Before you decide to push for full physical custody of your special needs child, it is wise to first determine if you are truly able to provide for all the necessary care that comes with full custody. Things to consider might include:
- Being prepared to keep up with your child’s bathing, feeding, clothing, and necessary schedules, either on your own or with family help or professional support
- Supervising your child while they are with you
- Taking your child to all the necessary appointments as well as school and counseling
- Acting as the sole contact person for doctors, teachers, and other service providers
Discuss the Divorce With Your Child’s Healthcare Providers
During a divorce, it is wise that you keep in contact with your special needs child’s healthcare providers. These professionals might include your child’s doctor, physical therapist, behavior specialist, psychiatrist, and school administrator. These providers can offer their advice on what kind of custody arrangement might be in the interest of your child. They may also have recommendations on how to help your child handle the upcoming transition.
FAQs
Q: What Should Be Included in a Parenting Plan for a Child With Special Needs?
A: When a divorcing couple creates a parenting plan for their child with special needs, there are considerations to take into account and items that should be discussed and addressed in this plan. These might include:
- A determination of legal custody and physical custody
- A plan for time-sharing schedules
- An understanding that these schedules might change, depending on the child’s needs
- A plan for what to do when the child is no longer a minor
Q: How Much Does a Divorce Lawyer Cost in Illinois?
A: In Illinois, it can be difficult to establish an exact estimate of how much it might cost to hire a divorce lawyer. This is because several factors can impact the final cost analysis. These can include the complexity of the case, the cooperation of your co-parent and their legal team during negotiations, and the experience of your attorney.
Q: What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Divorcing With a Special Needs Child?
A: There are several mistakes that one should avoid when divorcing with a special needs child. These include not making decisions regarding guardianship once the child is no longer considered a minor and leaving out considerations for indefinite child support. A critical mistake is not retaining an attorney who has the knowledge necessary to assist you in creating a fully comprehensive parenting plan.
Q: How Can Parents Balance Their Own Needs and Those of Their Special Needs Child During a Divorce?
A: As a parent, undergoing a divorce with a special needs child involved can be frightening and uncertain. During these times, it is vital that you support yourself during this process. Remember that you can only take care of others as much as you take care of yourself. Look for support groups in your area, lean on friends and family to help watch your child so that you can attend counseling, and accept any support that is offered to you.
Contact a Trusted and Compassionate Springfield, IL, Divorce Lawyer Today
At Stange Law Firm, we understand that divorce can be difficult and challenging, even more so when you are the parent of a special needs child. During this time, you deserve an advocate who not only keeps your interests in mind but also the interests of your child. We are here to help you create a successful co-parenting plan, handle any negotiations on your behalf, and assist you in resolving any disputes with your co-parent. Contact our offices today.
