Keep children together and avoid splitting them up

It is becoming more and more common to see blended families in today’s world. The Court will take into account the relationships between all types of siblings, including half-siblings and stepsiblings, not just biological siblings.

In the instance that parents with blended families separate, it is important to consider the impact on the children if they are to be split up.

People tend to focus on only the biological children of the parents and fail to accommodate for the other children involved. Seeking to separate the children may suggest to the Court that the parent is not child-focused.

The Court does not usually like to separate children unless they have no other option.

It may be wise not to ask the Court that children be separated, especially where twins are involved, and consider alternative measures before this is suggested.

However, on occasion, the Court may decide that the best option to accommodate all of the children’s best interests and well-being is for them to be separated.

We recommend you seek legal advice in this regard as it applies to your particular circumstances. You may need to consider child custody mediation to find a solution that works for all involved.