Putting children's needs first when getting a divorce

‘Bird’s Nest Custody’ seeks to put the needs of children first when their parents are separating or divorcing, writes Ken Phelan

One of the more unsettling aspects of separation or divorce is the impact they have on children; children are left confused, rejected and often have to choose allegiance between embittered parties. In 2014, there were over 2,600 divorces granted by the Circuit Court and High Court, with the number of separations undocumented.

Traditional modes of separation or divorce arguably offer little protection for the welfare of the child; separations are typically acrimonious by nature, and tend to lead to legal disputes, custody battles and apportioned blame, all while children look helplessly on.