To say that parenthood is a monumental responsibility is an understatement. If you've had children, you understand the significance of being present and fulfilling the many needs that aid in their healthy development. 

But truly having the capacity to be your child's everything in the midst of a divorce presents its own challenges. Divorce takes a toll on the whole family. You're forced to adjust to major changes in your family dynamic and within the relationship with your children in a very short span of time. This adjustment could prove to be more difficult for some than others, especially when inevitable outside life factors come into play.

The good news is that your children don't have to suffer when life gets in the way of your ability to parent the way you wish to. When New Jersey parents initiate a divorce, they may determine a temporary custody agreement while a permanent child custody order is being decided. This means that your children may be placed temporarily in the custody of either the other parent, or with a party other than the parents (e.g. grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other relatives) if it is in the best interests of the child.

Reasons For a Parent to Consider a Temporary Custody Agreement

There are many viable reasons why a parent would consider giving temporary custody to another party. Unless the agreement stems from an underlying crime, these reasons aren't things that you should be ashamed of. Life happens, and the courts understand that. This is why this agreement is readily available upon request. Reasons for temporary guardianship include:

• A lack of financial resources: Raising children is expensive. Perhaps you just lost your job or were in between jobs when this divorce was sprung on you. If you can't afford to care for your children at the moment, the court may grant temporary guardianship to someone with the financial means until you get back on your feet.
• Severe illness or hospitalization: You can't help being sick or incapacitated. If you're hospitalized, on bed rest, or put in any health situation that makes parenting difficult, you may request that someone else care for your children while you focus on getting better.
• A demanding schedule: If you have a career that requires you to consistently travel, or attend work at unusual times, you can ask another party to care for your child temporarily.
• Domestic violence: In the event that the court finds that a child's safety is in jeopardy due to the threat of abuse, a temporary custody agreement will be imposed to protect the child. 

How Temporary Custody Affects NJ Child Custody Cases

It's important that divorcing parents understand that the parent who receives temporary custody of their children could possibly have the upper hand in an impending child custody case. However, this isn't always the case. Courts will consider the circumstances, their options and will ask the children for their opinion. So it's important that you maintain a great relationship with your children, and ensure that your circumstances don't exceed the allotted time you requested.

The Lento Law Firm is Here to Help

If you're going through a divorce and need an attorney to represent you in your child custody case, you've come to the right place. Attorney Joseph D. Lento has spent close to 20 years passionately advocating for clients in your situation. For a consultation, contact him online or by phone at 888-535-3686.