It is well known that divorce can be messy. And even when divorcing spouse are able to navigate through hostilities and high conflict, this does not mean this is the last time the couple will be faced with divorce issues. Even after a divorce decree is reached, family law issues could open the door back open. Whether it is a year or a decade following this agreement, if a parent believes changes are necessary, divorced parents may have to return to court to resolve any new or outstanding issues. While this can be complex and emotional, it is often in the best interests of the child to reach a resolution if new issues have evolved.
According to recent reports, the Real Housewives of New York City, Bethenny Frankel and her ex, Jason Hoppy, are going back to court. The two are going to trial over custody of their 8-year-old daughter. The two settled their divorce back in July of 2016; however, Frankel seeks primary custody and full decision-making power of their daughter. Hoppy seeks to keep the arrangement as is, which is joint custody.
It is Frankel’s hope, according to statements, to obtain sole custody and sole decision-making in order to prevent further harm to their daughter. Hoppy was accused of various things, such as physically pulling their daughter away from Frankel, leaving out negative press about Frankel, locked up their dog in a storage closet for hours, sent cruel texts and emails to Frankel, sending a series of 500 emails to Frankel in one day, making negative comments about Frankel to their daughter and other similar acts.
Hoppy is in disagreement with these allegations, and this action seems suspect to him. He claims she is seeking publicity, especially after she filed for full custody following his arrest for her stalking allegations. Hoppy seeks to keep things civil and maintain the co-parenting of their daughter, as it has been working well. This matter still remains at issue.
Although it is not an easy step to take, going back to court to sort through family law matters can be necessary and beneficial. It is not only the parents that are looking out for the best interests of the child, but the court is also conscious of this. It is important to understand how to initiate or work through such an action and how best to protect your rights and interests in the matter.