Co-parenting is not easy. You are bound to run into a few problems with your ex as you feel out this new arrangement and see how it affects your children. You can at least take solace in the fact that many recently divorced parents have also ended up encountering co-parenting issues of their own, and that means that there are some tried-and-true ways to handle such things. So if you are struggling, read this advice from a knowledgeable Mountainside child visitation attorney.
What Should I Do When I Encounter Common Co-Parenting Issues?
Our divorce attorneys have seen more than their share of co-parenting issues. Let’s take a closer look at some of the common ones and what you can do to avoid them:
Toxic communications: You just cannot get through an email or text conversation with your ex without it turning toxic.
Solution: Just keep the texts simple. Convey directions, talk about what the kids need in simple terms, and do not get sidetracked. If your ex tries to trigger any kind of reaction, ignore them.
Fights at dropoff: You and your ex just cannot get along, even during a quick dropoff or pickup of the kids.
Solution: You can have the dropoff/pickup location changed to neutral ground. A lawyer can help you change the terms of your agreement and set a new location. In the meantime, just do your best not to take any bait from your ex.
You are too angry: The anger with your ex has become consuming and the two of you struggle to be civil in any context.
Solution: You need to work on yourself. If you can talk out your feelings in therapy, that may help. You are letting anger over the past consume your present and future, and there is just no good excuse for that.
Criticism is constant: Each parent is going to have their own style and rules. A problem arises when co-parents cannot stop criticizing what the other parent does.
Solution: Set some general ground rules, and then do not worry about what is going on at your ex’s house. As long as your kids are safe, that is all that matters.
Can a Lawyer Help With Co-Parenting Issues?
Sometimes a lawyer’s assistance can be welcome here. Your lawyer can help you make modifications to any custody and visitation agreements. So if your ex does not agree to change the time or location of dropoffs or pickups, your lawyer can try to take them to court and show that this change is in the best interests of you and your children.
Your lawyer can also communicate on your behalf. If things are simply too toxic with your ex and you know that every conversation will end up being a fight, then you and your ex can both talk through your lawyers for now.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you believe that it is time for a lawyer to step in, contact Ross & Calandrillo, LLC. We can help you modify agreements and work out a co-parenting arrangement that is better for everyone. So schedule a consultation today.
