It has always been important for the children of divorcing couples to feel heard and to be allowed to have their say during proceedings. The rights of a child under these circumstances are determined by Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which solicitors in Bangor can tell you allow any child to be treated with dignity.
However, despite the laws dictating the rights of children, they are still often left unheard – and recent studies have found that almost 40 per cent of children involved in divorces have felt that their wishes have not been taken seriously. Steps have now been taken recently to rectify this matter, and several initiatives have been put in place to address the problem.
For example, family law barristers in North Wales can encourage more mediation activities that are child-friendly when looking to come to joint agreements. Other recommendations include offering training opportunities to judges and court staff to cover topics like child psychology. This could be vital in allowing legal experts involved in the case to identify when a child has been pressurised to say or do certain words or actions by family members. Using more video links for child safety and giving the child the chance to receive information in a way they can understand and digest can also be helpful.
Our team here at Bennett Smith Solicitors can help you with all aspects of divorce, so reach out now and book an appointment with our experts.
