Public figures like celebrities and politicians are all-too-familiar with the stressors of being in the spotlight. Whether it's celebrating achievements or sharing heartbreaking news, the trade-off for the luxuries of fame is managing people's expectations – and often, their harsh opinions. Yet not many people consider fame's adverse impact on children in the public eye, especially during messy divorces and custody battles.

For Grey's Anatomy star Jesse Williams, it's the end of a bitter three-year custody battle with former spouse Aryn Drake-Lee. The former couple now shares joint custody of their children Maceo and Sadie, but not without years of press battles, statements, and leaked information plaguing the case. While the resulting divorce is healthier for the family, it will affect their children, who will likely read the not-so-good details when they get older.

How Children Become Victims in Public Figure Custody Battles

It is understandably intriguing when the carefully-crafted façade of a happy and high-profile family shatters in public. But while most celebrities have the funds, lawyers, and public relations specialists to keep it “put together,” the victims in these battles are often the kids.

Children of public figures like Williams may have privilege in some aspects of their lives but have unique challenges to navigate. Research suggests that these children often have difficulty separating their identity from that of their parents. A nasty custody battle between famous parents could manifest into undesirable behavior and coping mechanisms down the line.

Most parents care for their children and want the best for them in life. Public figures are not different, and they do their best to keep their children protected from the fallout. Yet, due to their fame, they may also want to prove a point in front of the public eye. In such scenarios, public figures may place their ego ahead of their children's interests and psychological well-being.

Protecting Kids During a Custody Battle

Parents of minors must not let their anger come before the well-being of their children. How the couple approaches the divorce and custody case has a significant impact on their children's self-esteem and security. At Lento Law Firm, we understand the stress and anger that parents feel during this time and help them plan a strategy to get the best possible outcome for their case.

If you are going through a custody battle, you can make the transition safer and more comfortable for your children.

• Refrain from discussing the details of the divorce on social media platforms.
• Avoid guilt-tripping the child or manipulating their opinions and behavior.
• Speak to your children about what is happening, together if possible, and answer their questions.
• Consider how actions like posting pictures of the children during a divorce or custody battle can impact their case.
• Avoid slandering the other parent on public forums, to others, in statements, and in-person.

No matter how famous a child's parents are, the breakup of a family unit is a stressful and significant life event. By keeping a child's best interests at the forefront during a custody battle, parents help their children overcome the challenges they will undoubtedly face during the transition. Call attorney Joseph D. Lento and the Lento Law Firm today at 888-535-3686 for help.