As if divorce were not already difficult enough, getting divorced when you have children can make things even more messy and contentious. Not only do you have a potential dispute about the division of marital assets, you also have a dispute about child custody and parenting time, which often only heightens the emotions involved and increases the amount of drama between the parties.

Much of the time, these disagreements end up in a contested divorce – a situation where neither you nor your spouse can reach an agreement about all of the issues. Contested divorces are, generally speaking, more expensive and more time consuming. They also have the tendency to spill over into other parts of your life, and this is where things can go wrong when it comes to you, your spouse, and your children.

The fight over who gets the kids, who gets to stay in the marital home, and who must move out is quite often a serious battle. Spouses tend to see the battle as a fight with a winner and a loser – and unfortunately, the child in the middle is often the one who pays.

Working together for the sake of your kids

Parents who can set their differences aside for the sake of their child demonstrate their love and their willingness to defer their wants over what is best for the child. When you look at it from a broader perspective, unless one parent is declared unfit to be a parent, both parties will still be partners in caring for the children in a custody arrangement, and raising them to be responsible citizens. But the struggle continues because one parent usually believes that he or she would be the “best” parent and that their household affords the best living situation for the child. With all the emotional issues embroiled among the complicated legal issues with child custody, it can turn into a long, costly court fight.

When children are involved, divorce can be complicated and fraught with confusion. Having the skillful support of an experienced Nashville divorce lawyer on your side makes all the difference for your case.

At Miller Upshaw Family Law, PLLC, we understand the emotional rollercoaster that divorce can bring on. We extend steady support, guidance and advocacy for our clients during a difficult time in their lives. Call us today at 615-391-4200 or fill out our contact form to reserve your consultation with a skilled Nashville divorce lawyer.