Family Law Lawyer

You may already be privy to some of the most basic elements of shared custody etiquette. You know not to pick your kid up late from school and to not bad mouth the other parent in front of your child. Of course these are important, but there are many other unspoken rules that you may want to follow in order to maintain a cordial shared custody arrangement. As a family law lawyer explains, if you are aiming for amiability when co-parenting, here is some insight to think about. When determining child custody, the court will prioritize what is in the ideal interest of the children. 

Your child may already be going through quite a bit of stress from the divorce or separation. Do not ever ask your child to choose between their parents, as this can be damaging for their mental health in the long term. While you may want to ask your child as a way to show respect and to offer a preference, but for them there may be no right answer in such a situation. The child knows that the parent they do not choose will have their feelings hurt, making it an impossible choice that can do more harm than good.

Remember that when it comes to sharing custody with the other parent, it may not always feel completely equal at all times. There may be certain weeks where one parent may see your child more than you do, but it doesn’t mean this is a reflection on your relationship. Maybe one parent wants to take their child on a vacation with them, while the other gets to spend time with them for upcoming special occasions and holidays. Don’t make your child feel guilty for spending time with the other parents. Instead, look at it as an opportunity for you to focus on yourself. If you are going through difficult emotions from sharing custody, consider reaching out to your closest loved ones or a therapist. Talk therapy can be a beneficial way to process your feelings in a healthy and introspective way. 

After a custody agreement has been established, it can be altered through a request to the court. Perhaps one parent has had a sudden change in their schedule due to work or other obligations, and needs to update visitation days. Another reason that a child custody agreement may have to be changed is if one parent is not holding up their end of responsibilities in taking care of children. A parent that feels shared custody is no longer working can get help from their lawyer, such as a team member at Robinson & Hadeed, about pursuing full custody. 

All in all, you can make shared custody amicable, but it may take extra support from your friends, family members, therapists, and a dedicated lawyer. They say that it takes a village to raise children, and what is important is that you have the support you need to provide your kids with the best life possible.