Divorcing couples with children fear one thing: the child custody battle. No one wants to lose their child, especially to their ex. However, the practical thing would be to understand that your child needs their other parent as well. You must know how to handle the child custody situation in a way that is beneficial for your children.
If your spouse is not cooperating and giving you a hard time during the child custody battles, a family lawyer in Ridgeland can help you.
Tips to avoid an ugly child custody battle
- Negotiate and communicate.
We know the last thing you want is to speak to your ex-spouse. You may have feelings of anger, disappointment, etc., regarding them and may not wish to talk to them. However, keeping your differences aside for a few days can do wonders for your divorce and child custody case and even shorten the process. It may help to not view them as your once-husband/wife, but a parent to your children. Have honest communication about what you want and what you think is best for the kids.
- Do not think of it as a “battle.”
Even though we call it a child custody battle, one should not think of it as a literal battle. When you think of the courtroom as a battlefield, you immediately develop the feelings of wanting to win. Instead, use it to make your child’s life better amidst the divorce.
- Be an active parent.
Even while the divorce is going on, be present in your child’s life. Your behavior must demonstrate that your child’s wellbeing is your primary concern. Call them every day if they are not currently living with you, attend their school events, offer to take them to places. Doing these things can prevent your ex from raising the argument that you are not a responsible parent.
- Do not use custody as a revenge opportunity.
It is natural that your spouse must have upset you greatly for the marriage to lead to a divorce. However, if your spouse has already filed for a divorce, it is time to move on and focus on more important things: your children. Your children are innocent and should not be used as weapons in a divorce. If your spouse is a good parent, you should not attempt to snatch custody from them.
- Try mediation.
Many parents want to negotiate in peace but fail to arrive at a solution they agree with. Try hiring a mediator before your peaceful negotiation turns into a fight and see what happens. A mediator can look into the situation, consider both of your needs and figure out a solution that you might not have figured out on your own.
The Washington Magazine 