Breaking Bad Parents

In a recent Toronto Star article, a Hamilton Superior Court ruling was dubbed a ‘cautionary tale’ to separating parents. Justice Alex Pazaratz issued a creative warning to divorcing couples in a recent custody battle decision, drawing inspiration from the hugely popular AMC series Breaking Bad.

“Breaking Bad, meet Breaking Bad Parents,” wrote Justice Alex Pazaratz.

“SPOILER ALERT,” the justice wrote. “The main characters in both of these tragedies end up pretty much the same: Miserable. Financially ruined. And worst of all, hurting the children they claimed they were protecting.”

The unconventional analogy is meant to serve as a “sobering warning,” Pazaratz says in his decision.

“Will these parents sign up for the permanent cast of Breaking Bad Parents? Will they become regulars in our family court building, recognizable by face and disposition? Or will they come to their senses; salvage their lives, dignity (and finances); and give their children the truly priceless gifts of maturity and permission to love?”

The case that prompted Pazaratz’s extended metaphor involved separated parents from a Hamilton suburb, arguing over how to share custody of their two sons who are under 5.

Collaborative Practice is a process that encourages parents to give their children the ‘truly priceless gifts of maturity and permission to love’ that Justice Pazaratz talks about in his ruling. Our family professionals bring vast experience in working with separating couples along with their understanding of grief and stages of development in children. Involving a collaborative team to guide you through your separation could very well be the most priceless gift you will ever give your children.

For more information about Collaborative Practice, please visit Collaborative Practice Toronto.

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