Faith plays a critical, central role in the lives of many people. That does not change when you have children – in fact, it can become even more important for families.
However, if you are facing a divorce and negotiating joint custody, how do you approach your child’s religious upbringing? This can be an intensely personal and sensitive matter, but here are some critical points to understand.
What does North Carolina law say?
Since the United States promotes the freedom of religion with the First Amendment, there are not many specifics about how parents approach the matter of religion. After all, they have the right to practice and raise their child in their faith.
Even so, the most critical issue to consider under the law will be what is in the best interest of your child. As long as the religious upbringing promotes the child’s well-being and causes no harm, that is the most important thing.
3 other steps when determining religious matters
The law may not directly speak to how parents should handle religion in custody matters. However, it is included as a subject divorcing parents should cover as they establish a custody arrangement. It will help to:
- Compare your priorities: Where do you stand regarding your faith? How does your ex-spouse feel? Are you on the same page, or does one of you feel much stronger about your child’s religious upbringing? It is important to understand your priorities and your starting point. It may also be critical to consider your child’s preferences, depending on their age.
- Discuss your path forward: If you and your ex-spouse share a religion and feel the same about its role in your child’s life, this might be an easier discussion. Even if you agree, it is still helpful to highlight how you wish to approach your child’s upbringing in your parenting and custody arrangement.
- Remember scheduling: The parenting schedule will be a critical factor in your custody arrangement, and religious matters can carry some influence over that. For example, you may have to plan for religious education, services, special events and even holidays.
Your faith is often a matter of heart and soul – not of the law. However, it is still an important aspect of your life and your child’s upbringing that you should take care to address.