Children’s Bill of Rights

A family law matter can be emotional for all adults involved, but have you ever stopped to think what it’s like for a child? A family law matter can be equally, if not more, overwhelming for a child. It’s important to make sure children going through a matter such as a divorce or custody feels your full support.

Reducing Burdens on Kids

Please read through the “Children’s Bill of Rights in Divorce” (Robert E. Emery, Ph.D., The Truth About Children and Divorce) provided below. It gives key rights for you to keep in mind as you support your children through the confusing situation they may be facing.

1. The right to love and be loved by both of your parents without feeling guilt or disapproval.
2. The right to be protected from your parents’ anger with each other.
3. The right to be kept out of the middle of your parents’ conflict, including the right not to pick sides, carry messages or hear complaints about the other parent.
4. The right not to have to choose one of your parents over the other.
5. The right not to have to be responsible for the burden of either of your parents’ emotional problems.
6. The right to know well in advance about important changes that will affect your life; for example, when one of your parents is going to move or get remarried.
7. The right to reasonable financial support during your childhood and through your college years.
8. The right to have feelings, to express your feelings, and to have both parents listen to how you feel.
9. The right to have a life that is a close as possible to what it would have been if your parents stayed together.
10. The right to be a kid.

At Burton Law Firm, we know a family law matter can cause a heavy burden on your mind and heart. We are here to walk you through the process and lighten your load. Contact us to schedule a consultation today.