The divorce process is already difficult on its own, but divorcing with children can really complicate the matter. Parents in Alabama and elsewhere find it challenging to see eye-to-eye when their parenting time is up to the chopping block. While co-parenting is often ideal, divorcing parents can go back and forth and what they believe is best for the child and what arrangement meets the best interests of the child.

According to recent reports, former Spice Girl Mel B and her estranged husband Stephen Belafonte are going through a custody dispute. Belafonte filed a response to Mel B’s divorce petition. In that response, he addressed his needs regarding child custody, which is joint custody of the couple’s one child.

Previously, when Mel B filed for divorce, she also asked for joint custody. However, this state of mind changed recently when she filed a restraining order. In that document she asked for sole legal and physical custody of the couple’s child. It is unclear if she was seeking sole custody just temporarily or was attempting to obtain it for the long-term. Nonetheless, Belafonte is not in agreement and is exercising his father’s rights to seek joint custody.

In addition to custody issues, reports suggest that that the couple is disputing over various divorce issues. This includes spousal support and property division. It has been suggested that the couple did not have a prenuptial agreement, which could mean a long and messy divorce if they continue finding themselves in disagreement.

No matter the divorce issue, it is important that both spouses understand their rights and options. When it comes to child custody matters, parents need to keep the needs and best interests of the child in the forefront. This could help ensure that a fair and workable agreement is finally reached.

Source: Tmz.com, “Stephen Belafonte Files Divorce Response I Want Support from Mel,” April 6, 2017