There are many reasons why you may feel that you aren’t up to the task. It could be that you are going through a difficult divorce, and don’t know where the money will come from to support your child. Perhaps you have received some very difficult medical news. You need treatment. For a substance abuse disorder, you may need detox or rehabilitation. No matter what the circumstances, it is important that you look after your child’s best interests while you work out the details. You can take steps to ensure your child is taken care of, regardless of whether you are still the caretaker.
APPLY TO CHILD SUPPORT OR TEMPORARY ALIMONY
- Many parents don’t realize that they may be eligible for temporary support from their spouse in a divorce case. This could even happen before the judge makes the final divorce decree. An attorney can help you file for temporary child support or spousal maintenance in order to pay for the child’s needs while you are divorcing as the less-earning spouse.
- This request can be made as soon as your case is filed. A judge may order your spouse or child to support you financially during a trial or settlement.
REQUEST FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
- Federal and state assistance programs may allow you to get financial aid. California’s government has many resources that can help parents financially support their children. California Women, Infants and Children (WIC), CalFresh, Food Assistance, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs (SNAP) and electronic benefits transfers (EBT) are just a few examples. Federal programs like Head Start and Early Head Start could be applied for. These programs provide development and childcare services to low-income families.
TEMPORARILY GIVE CUSTODY to a RELATIVE
- A guardianship is a legal arrangement that allows your family to temporarily take over care of your child while they get back on their feet. If you have financial difficulties or are having medical issues, a guardianship might be the best option. You can also temporarily give up custody to help you get on your feet. You can arrange a guardianship by volunteering. This will allow you to control who looks after your child, and how long it will last.
- Name the person/people you wish to be your child’s guardian. To initiate a guardianship, you don’t need to go to court. You can simply write a letter that identifies the relatives who will have custody of your child. It should also state clearly that you grant the relative the right to make decisions about your child’s education and health. To make your letter legally binding, have it notarized. The guardian may take custody of your child for as long as it is necessary.
A DIVORCE LAWYER – WORK WITH
- An attorney can help you plan for the future if your worries about caring for your child stemming from a divorce proceeding in which your spouse was the breadwinner. An attorney can help you address financial issues such as applying to child support money or alimony. A judge will likely grant your request for financial awards if you have primary custody and are financially dependent on your spouse.
- Spousal support orders can help you meet your financial obligations until you find work. Child support is money that continues to provide financial support for your child up until the time he or she turns 18.
An attorney can help you to apply for financial relief that you need to care for your child after a divorce or separation. They will also connect you with federal and state resources.
Summarized from an article by Boyd Law.
