The Special Needs Child and Divorce: A Practical Guide to Handling and Evaluating Cases - 2nd Edition - Margaret S Price

The Special Needs Child and Divorce: A Practical Guide to Handling and Evaluating Cases 2nd Edition Margaret S Price ISBN 9781639052042

Family law practitioners are increasingly encountering divorce cases involving children with special needs—matters that often require heightened sensitivity, specialized knowledge, and tailored legal solutions. These families frequently face higher divorce rates, and their cases present unique challenges that standard family law approaches may not adequately address. This practical guide examines what constitutes “special needs,” how those needs intersect with divorce and custody proceedings, and how attorneys can better serve both the children and their families throughout the legal process.

Special needs are often defined by the same categories used in public education for special education eligibility, such as autism, physical or health impairments, emotional disturbances, learning disabilities, and developmental delays. The book begins by explaining how special needs are defined in legislation, how cases are evaluated, and how courts typically address these issues. It then walks attorneys through key stages of representation, including the initial client interview, drafting pleadings and motions, and understanding the relevant statutes and case law.

The Special Needs Child and Divorce, Second Edition explores how traditional child support guidelines and standard visitation schedules often fail to meet the realities faced by special needs children. It provides practical alternatives, including a model child support chart, customized parenting plans, and guidance on modifications specifically designed for these cases. Later chapters address related issues such as spousal support and property division, the roles of parties and professionals in the divorce process, guardianships, special needs trusts, and broader estate planning considerations.

Drawing on extensive experience in family court litigation involving special needs children, the author offers actionable practice tips throughout the book. The guide also includes sample language, forms, and checklists to help practitioners adapt standard documents and procedures to better protect the interests of special needs children and ensure more effective, compassionate outcomes for families.

The Special Needs Child and Divorce: A Practical Guide to Handling and Evaluating Cases 2nd Edition Margaret S Price ISBN 9781639052042, 978-1639052042 & 9781639052059

Author
Margaret S Price