How to Avoid Becoming a “Deadbeat” Parent
Posted on August 22nd, 2019 by Oddo & Babat, P.C.
Family Lawyer
The common perception of a “deadbeat parent” is one who neglects his or her parenting responsibilities, especially as they relate to timely payment of child support. It is surprisingly easy for parents to become neglectful of their parenting responsibilities, which may or may not include paying child support. Why is it so easy to become a deadbeat parent? When you are no longer romantically linked to your child’s other parent, and your child likely lives for a portion of his or her time with that other parent, it can become very difficult to juggle the stresses of working and single parenthood. A surprising number of parents are not “deadbeats” intentionally. They just lack access to necessary tools that support their efforts at effective single parenthood. Thankfully, experienced family law attorneys can help parents who are struggling with their parenting and/or child support obligations.
Preventing a “Deadbeat” Parent Label
If you owe child support but are having difficulty paying on time and in full every month, please know that you may be eligible for a child support modification. Depending on the unique nature of your circumstances, you may be able to alter the amount you owe, your payment schedule and/or additional factors in order to better ensure that you can provide the necessary support for your child inconsistent ways.
Similarly, if you are struggling to meet your other parenting responsibilities, you may benefit from a modification to your parenting plan. Perhaps your work schedule no longer allows you to meet your child’s best interests in accordance with the parenting schedule you were originally ordered to observe. A modification may allow you to more effectively be present for your child physically and emotionally.
These are just two of the many legal tools your attorney may suggest when you schedule a consultation to discuss your family’s unique situation. If you are not consistently honoring your parenting responsibilities despite your best efforts, you may benefit from working with an attorney experienced in the area of family law.
Legal Guidance Is Available
If you have questions about child custody, child support and/or any other legal matter that may affect your children, please do not hesitate to schedule a consultation with an experienced family law attorney today. Each family is unique, so it is therefore perhaps unsurprising that no two family legal situations are exactly alike either. It is therefore important to speak with an attorney about your circumstances and legal options before making any assumptions about your situation. You may have more legal options available to you than you may think. Similarly, your state may treat child custody, child support and other legal realities in ways than are different than you might assume. A law firm has extensive experience assisting clients with a wide range of family legal challenges. Please consider connecting with a family lawyer in Rockville, MD today so that they might assist you with your unique situation.
Thanks to the Law Office of Daniel J. Wright for their insight into family law and prenups.
I consulted with David the first time a couple of years ago on a serious matter that affected a very close member of my family. Not expecting a good experience from this serious situation coupled with an attorney consultation, the entire thing surprised me as it was pleasant, professional, and completely successful. We found him clear, direct, generous and extremely knowledgeable throughout the process. I give my very strongest recommendation
