Divorces are notorious for getting ugly fast, and when there are children in the picture, custody battles can be devastating. While you may be doing your best to help your children through this difficult time, your ex-spouse could be making huge efforts to create conflict around child custody.
Custody battles do not benefit anyone. Your best strategy is to try to reduce conflict as much as possible so that you can obtain a successful and productive outcome that puts your children’s best interests at the forefront. Here are three tips that can help you as you navigate your situation:
1. Focus on what is best for your children
Although you may be unable to even stand being in the same room as your ex, you must keep in mind that your ex is also your children’s parent. Your children should not shoulder responsibility or blame for conflicts between you and your ex. Strive to ensure that all your decisions and negotiations regarding child custody aim to put your children’s needs first.
2. Be objective in the agreement you seek
Divorce is, by its very nature, an emotionally charged situation. In a child custody battle, you may act out of emotion rather than rational and objective consideration. Decisions you make aimed at punishing your spouse inevitably create more strife, so avoid them. In a complex child custody situation, seek to make your decisions based on your family law attarney’s professional counsel as well as what is objectively best for the children.
3. Make an effort to seek an agreement
Battles that involve children often only increase trauma, anxiety and stress. It is in your children’s and your own best interest to try to negotiate as much as possible and seek an agreement if you can. Heated courtroom cases can go on for a long time, resulting in a costly case and increased conflict. Seek ways to find common ground for the good of your children. Turn to professionals who can help.
