Tennessee parents like you need to decide what type of custody situation will work best for everyone, but especially your children. Today, the Law Office of Gregory D. Smith will examine the possible positive benefits associated with joint custody.

In recent studies, it has been shown that children of joint custody seem to do better than children of sole custody on a whole. They seem to experience more emotional stability, fewer behavioral problems, and less trouble adjusting to life in the aftermath of the divorce itself. They tend to be happier, and seem to suffer from fewer issues like anxiety or depression as they age.

In terms of relationship skills, children of sole custody are shown to struggle more in school. They tend to be “trouble-makers”, and some find it difficult to make friends their age. Likewise, many of them feel estranged from one or even sometimes both parents.

On the other hand, children of joint custody seem to have fewer issues with making friends, act up less often in school settings, and have an easier time developing meaningful relationships with both parents. It is believed that having both parents involved in the child’s life creates more harmony and balance.

If you are curious about the possibility of sharing joint custody of your child with your ex-spouse, consider contacting an experienced family law attorney. They will be able to tell you whether or not this type of custody arrangement will realistically work for your unique situation, and may be able to help you through the process to get there.

If you are in Tennessee and have questions about rules regarding divorce, family law, or custody, call the Law Office of Gregory D. Smith, 931/647-1299 or visit www.gsmithlawfirm.com. Mr. Smith is listed in Mid-South Super Lawyers and is A-V rated by Martindale-Hubbell. You can read a featured article about Mr. Smith in the November, 2019 ABA Journal, (the national magazine of the American Bar Association), athttp://www.abajournal.com/magazine/article/tennessee-attorney-greg-smith.