Louisiana Legal Blog

A divorce may follow a troubled marriage that is no longer salvageable by the parties who entered into it. When conflict grows, and happiness diminishes, married parties may seek the support of divorce professionals to advise them on their options for ending their relationships. In Louisiana, some couples may choose to use mediation to bring their marriage to its end.

Among divorced couples with children, it may happen that the non-custodial parent is concerned that the money paid for child support is not being spent with the best interests of the child in mind. Or, there may be concern that the custodial parent is not raising the child in a generally acceptable manner. The court does not usually involve itself in what may be regarded as family arguments regarding the upbringing of a child. The court will become involved, however, if it can be shown that the custodial parent's conduct is contrary to the best interests of the child. The burden of proof in such matters rests with the non-custodial parent. 

If minor children have lived in the home of a divorcing couple, serious consideration should be given to finding a method of division that allows the spouse who retains physical custody of the children to remain in the family home. This is regarded favorably by many judges and is generally considered to be in the best interest of the children. It also lessens the severe economic burdens that may be placed on the spouse with custody. It may be seen one-sided for one spouse to have custody of the children and to have possession of the family home. In reality, however, in nearly every divorce situation in which children are involved, it is the spouse without custody who fares better economically. 

You may agree with many other Louisiana parents who say that raising teenagers is both rewarding and greatly challenging at the same time. If you have more than one teenager in your family at this time, you may feel an increase of such challenges and, hopefully, of the rewards as well. It's no secret that a lot of the teenage population in the United States have been getting into trouble in recent years.  

From online bullying, suicide and other heavy social issues, kids today face a lot more stress and peer pressure than was typical for teenagers long ago. It has definitely taken its toll, and if your son or daughter is in trouble with the law, you understand just how difficult such situations can be. Another major problem among teens is underage drinking.