Monthly Archives: September 2021

What’s in the Best Interest of The Child in a Parenting Agreement?

Posted on September 15, 2021 by She Spies Private Eye

When it comes to a parenting agreement, the overriding focus in any custody case should be on a solution that’s in the child’s best interest. But what does that actually mean? And how can you prevent the anger or resentment of divorce from playing a role in important custody decisions?

Analyzing the Child’s Best Interests in Custody Cases

In a perfect world, a child should be able to maintain a close and loving relationship with both parents after a divorce, but that can be challenging when resolving a child custody dispute. It’s important to remember that the choices made (or the decisions a judge makes for you) will affect your child’s development and relationship with you in crucial ways for years to come.

Ultimately, you’ve succeeded if all custody and visitation decisions foster and encourage the child’s happiness, security, mental health, and emotional development into young adulthood. Let’s break that down into some specifics.

Common Factors Analyzed in Most Parenting Agreements

  • The child’s wishes (if old enough to capably express a reasonable preference)
  • The parents’ mental and physical health
  • Any special needs a child may have and how each parent meets those needs
  • Cultural and/or religious considerations
  • Continuation of a stable home environment
  • Other children whose custody is relevant to this child’s parenting arrangement
  • Support and opportunity for interaction with extended family members
  • Interrelationships with other household members
  • Adjustments to school, lifestyle, and community
  • The age and sex of the child
  • Whether there’s evidence of domestic violence, excessive discipline, or parental drug, alcohol, or child abuse in the home

Remember, the court system takes a holistic approach with custody agreements, with the child’s overall safety and happiness being the prime concern.

Seek Help from a Private Investigator if Concerns Arise

Even though you may know what’s in the best interest of your child, the court has the final say. If you have suspicions about the safety of your child in your partner’s care or other specific concerns, a private investigator can help you get the evidence you need to reach the best-possible parenting agreement. Contact She Spies Private Eye today for a consultation.

This entry was posted in Child Custody, Divorce, Hiring a Private Investigator, Private Investigations. Bookmark the permalink.
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The Impact of Domestic Violence on Children

Posted on September 15, 2021 by She Spies Private Eye

It’s a global problem, but we don’t always talk about the impact of domestic violence on children. While both men and women are affected, some of the biggest victims of domestic violence are the smallest.

Kids need a safe and secure home, with parents or caretakers that protect them. But for far too many, home is far from a safe haven. Each year, millions of children are exposed to domestic violence at home, having a profound impact on their lives and hopes for the future.

In fact, it’s estimated that 133 to 275 million children witness violence between their parents/caretakers annually on a frequent basis — usually arguments between parents, or between their mother and partner. Evidence shows that witnessing this violence over a long period of time can severely affect a child’s well-being, personal development, and social interactions both in childhood and adulthood.

Common Issues Experienced by Kids Exposed to Domestic Violence

According to a recent study, The World Report on Violence against Children, children who are exposed to violence in the home may suffer a range of severe and lasting effects. They’re particularly vulnerable during the earliest years of life, with studies showing domestic violence is more prevalent in homes with younger children than those with older children.

According to the World Report:

  • Elementary and middle school-aged children witnessing parents’ violence at home are more likely to be victims of bullying at school. Conversely, exhibit signs of more aggressive behavior, and are up to three times more likely to be involved in fighting

  • Personality and behavioral problems among children exposed to violence take the forms of psychosomatic illnesses, depression, suicidal tendencies, and bed-wetting

  • Both girls and boys who’ve experienced domestic violence may run away or drift into a street life that exposes them to the risk of sexual abuse or exploitation

  • Kids who are not direct victims of family violence will have some of the same behavioral and psychological problems as those who are themselves physically abused

  • The effects of domestic violence on children are tied to difficulty learning and limited social skills, exhibit violent, risky or delinquent behavior, or suffer from depression or severe anxiety

Children Have a Right to a Safe Home Environment

Violence in the home takes away a child’s basic right to feel safe and secure in the world. Adults who work or spend time with kids, including teachers, social workers, relatives, and parents themselves, need the awareness and skills to recognize the signs and refer children to appropriate services.

If you’re suspicious of domestic violence on children, a private investigator can help you uncover the proof you need to protect them.

This entry was posted in Child Custody, Divorce, Private Investigations. Bookmark the permalink.
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