Adoptive Children and Divorce Settlements: Who Gets Custody?

According to the latest figures on divorce rates in the UK, there were 101,669 divorces among heterosexual couples in the UK in the year 2018 alone. While divorce proceedings are hard on the couple, it’s even harder on the children. For adopted children, it’s a whole different ball game.

These children already suffer from difficult emotions dealing with new parents and families. The added loss of a cohesive family can amplify those emotions as they struggle over where they belong in a family.

Divorce and Child Custody

Legally speaking, there’s not much difference in the custody process whether the child is born to the couple or has been adopted by them. Once the child has become a part of the family legally, they are considered to be the responsibility of the parents. The legal process of divorce in the UK requires that the child be treated under matrimonial laws regardless of their origination. While, legally, there’s no difference, the adoptive parents going through the divorce need to keep some special considerations in mind when dealing with the custody of an adoptive child. This means taking into account the needs of children who have been adopted at older ages, children who have special needs, and adopted infants.

Steps To Consider When Filing For Custody of Adoptive Children

While both parents have the right to file for custody of the adoptive child, the important thing to remember is how the child is feeling at this point. Here are some steps that should be taken to lessen the impact of divorce and have a smooth custody process:

• Establish co-parenting parameters and keeping your personal feelings of resentment or anger separated. Hire an expert solicitor to help you form a co-parenting plan that is acceptable to both parties and can be followed through amicably.
• Ensure the child’s emotional needs are kept above your own to maintain some stability in the child’s life for an extended time. Adoptive children are especially sensitive and can have trouble with the thought of a broken family. Make sure they are given ample time to adjust by making small changes gradually.
• Get professional assistance to ensure the child feels secure and no part of the custody requirements gets neglected.

Need help?

Wembley Solicitors offers top-notch legal assistance in Middlesex, UK to those in need of expert family law and children custody solicitors. Contact us today to know more!