Unmarried Couple With Child Splitting Up: What You Need To Know

Introduction

Breaking up is never easy, and when you add a child into the mix, it can become even more complicated. When an unmarried couple with a child decides to split up, there are many legal and emotional factors to consider. Here are some tips to help you navigate this difficult situation.

Custody and Visitation

One of the most important things to consider when an unmarried couple with a child splits up is custody and visitation. In most cases, the mother will have primary custody of the child unless there is evidence that she is not fit to be a parent. However, the father can still have visitation rights.

Joint Custody

If both parents are deemed fit to be parents, they may be able to share joint custody of the child. This means that both parents have equal say in major decisions regarding the child’s upbringing, and the child spends roughly equal amounts of time with each parent.

Child Support

Child support is another important factor to consider when an unmarried couple with a child splits up. The non-custodial parent is usually required to pay child support to the custodial parent to help cover the costs of raising the child.

Calculating Child Support

The amount of child support that the non-custodial parent is required to pay is determined by state guidelines. The guidelines take into account factors like each parent’s income and the child’s needs.

Property Division

When an unmarried couple with a child splits up, property division can also become an issue. Unlike in a divorce, there are no laws governing the division of property in these situations. As a result, it’s important for both parties to come to an agreement about how to divide their assets.

Mediation

Mediation can be a helpful way for unmarried couples to come to an agreement about property division. A mediator can help facilitate discussions and negotiations to help both parties come to a fair agreement.

Emotional Considerations

Splitting up can be emotionally difficult for everyone involved, including the child. It’s important for both parents to try to remain civil and put the child’s needs first.

Co-Parenting

Co-parenting can be a helpful way to ensure that both parents stay involved in the child’s life and work together to provide the best possible upbringing for the child.

Conclusion

Splitting up is never easy, but when an unmarried couple with a child decides to end their relationship, there are many legal and emotional factors to consider. By keeping the child’s needs in mind and working together to come to fair agreements, both parents can help ensure that the child has the best possible future.