Paternity During A Divorce

Posted by Victor Dela Casa

Divorces are one of the most emotionally-charged and traumatic events in one's life. While building a lifetime full of hopes and positive aspirations for you and your spouse, a divorce can enter the picture and, in an instant, take all that is good away leaving you on an emotional roller coaster that doesn't seem to end.

As divorce makes you question your beliefs and your ability as a husband, experts agree that doubting one's ability as a loving father is a common mistake among fathers. Divorce may have ended your relationship with your spouse, but it shouldn't end your paternity or your relationship as a father with your children. Divorce affects fathers all over the country.

The article quotes a licensed psychologist who touts the importance of a father in the upbringing of children. Specifically, the therapist points to the crucial nature of a dad being in the lives of children in a emotional and physical way.

Whether you have a boy or a girl or both, your children are constantly looking up to you. As a father-figure, your sons see you as a guiding light of who they are supposed to become while daughters learn who they should look for in a mate by your example.

According to the therapist, there are five important things that a father should do after a divorce to maintain a healthy relationship with his child or children.

She advises that fathers should stay in town if they can and maintain regular, predictable contact with the kids. She also mentioned the importance of being emotionally engaged and supportive of their best efforts, such as attending school plays or watching them play in a little league baseball game.

Her point is that the more present a dad is in a child's life, the stronger the bonds are that are being created. While absence could make the heart grow fonder, with children, it is presence that matters the most.

For all legal concerns involving paternity, divorce and child custody, it is advisable to contact a legal professional who can help during the difficult times. Legal professionals are trained and experienced in handling such sensitive cases and can guide fathers through their rights concerning their relationship with their child during a divorce proceeding.

(Originally Published De Plaza and O'Connor Law)

About The Author

Victor Dela Casa is a Filipino-Canadian who spent over a decade working as a business professional in Canada. Worked in IT, finance, marketing, international trade, public service, project management and the maritime industry. Degree in Economics from the University of the Philippines and Honours Diploma from Eastern College. Currently based in the Philippines and working as a professional writer for a multi-national business processes firm.