If a couple is raising a special needs child, then the approach to determining a suitable parenting agreement may be more complicated due to the needs of their particular child. One of the first steps for parents and their attorneys to undertake is to fully grasp the needs and conditions of the child. This can be accomplished by researching the disability involved, discussing the issue with current health care providers and consulting with the child’s educators.

Once the nature of the child’s needs are fully understood, it is essential to take into consideration all of the factors that will directly impact the child. A child with special needs often requires significant time and resources that may be harder for a single parent to provide. It may also be beneficial to assess how the child is currently adjusting to his or her life and how changes in the environment could directly impact the child’s ability to cope.

Lastly the ability of parents to communicate effectively may be even more important when a child with special needs is the center of a child custody decision. Every parent wants the best for his or her child, regardless of whether a child suffers from any physical, mental or emotional disability. Kentucky parents who are struggling to determine the living arrangement that will provide the best opportunities for their child can seek the guidance of a compassionate family lawyer who can help determine the best solutions for their child’s particular situation.

Source: thespruce.com, “Deciding Custody of a Special Needs Child“, Debrina Washington, Accessed on Jan. 25, 2018