Divorce itself can be stressful, but child disability can create a more complicated situation. Every situation is different, but a lot of care has to be given to ensure that a child with special needs can live a safe happy life.
Minoti Rajput of Friendship Circle states: “the ongoing challenges of medical, educational, financial, and caregiving can create a lot of tension between parents”. The added stress may include “individual career demands and the needs of other children in the family”.
Since parental responsibility doesn’t end at 18 for a child with a disability, it’s important to plan ahead financially. Below are three things to consider:
1.) It’s important to carefully divide responsibilities for taking care of the child. Parents may not always live near each other. Responsibilities may revolve around therapies for the child, health insurance, child care, transportation, etc. Alimony and child support fall into this.
2.) Past the age of 18, some factors will change for the child. Since cost estimates aren’t always correctly predicted at the time of divorce, it may be necessary to revisit the financial component of the divorce agreement. Health insurance, capability of he or she works, and the extent of the amount of caregiving are all factors to consider.
3.) In addition to support from the parents and/or other family members, there are government benefits available.
It’s important to have an experienced divorce law attorney on your side. At Southern Oaks Law Firm, Taylor Fontenot understands the need to listen and empathize, while providing practical legal advice and high-quality representation. Call or Email Taylor and the Southern Oaks Law Firm today!