Divorcing parents have some serious decisions to make regarding the health, safety, security, and welfare of their children. Whether a divorce proceeds amicably or with complications, a recently devised Bill of Rights for Children is one of the most helpful resources for divorcing couples.

Developed by the New Jersey Chapter of the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, and modeled on the Children’s Bill of Rights of the American Bar Association, Section of Family Law, this comprehensive list for divorcing parents addresses many of the top issues that come up in family dissolution cases. The goal of the Bill of Rights for Children is to meet the true needs of children in divorce cases — anywhere in the world.

Some Family Court judges in New Jersey make the Bill of Rights for Children an enforceable Order of the Court, violation of which permits the judge to enter sanctions against the offending party.  I am involved in just such a case in Burlington County.  I had not seen the Bill of Rights for Children used in that way before, yet it makes good sense to me. We have begun incorporating the Bill of Rights for Children into our clients’ Settlement Agreements and Consent Orders.

The main themes of the Bill of Rights for Children include:

• Respect for the feelings, ideas and welfare of the child.
• Allowing the child to express, experience, and know the love of both parents.
• Not forcing the child to either choose parent or act as an intermediary.
• Permitting a continued relationship between the child and each parent.
• Receiving continued guidance and support from each parent.
• Preserving childhood and allowing a child to experience the joys of growing up — despite the parents’ situation.
• Helping the child to cope and understand that the divorce is not their fault.

You can view the original document here:  Bill of Rights for Children

Rather than using children as leverage, bargaining chips, or for any other inappropriate purpose in divorce, the Bill of Rights for Children obligates parents to truly put their kids first. Under these guidelines, divorce may proceed with mutual respect for all involved, and it often concludes more smoothly. When children are treated like people who are affected by the divorce, rather than just an object of conflict, then everyone is likely to do better and heal faster, and experience minimal emotional scarring.

Divorce is hard on both kids and parents. An experienced, compassionate, and committed Family Law attorney can help you sort out your legal rights and obligations. Contact the Central Jersey Law Offices of Hanan M. Isaacs, P.C., to schedule your near-term and reduced fee initial consultation. Call 609-683-7400 or contact us online.  Call today.  You will be glad you did.

Hanan M Isaacs, P.C. represents individuals in family law, employment law and civil litigation in Princeton NJ and Central New Jersey including Kingston, New Brunswick, Lawrenceville, and Somerset NJ