The issue of child custody tends to draw the highest emotions during divorce proceedings, and those emotions don’t stop when the divorce has been finalized. For years to come, former spouses will have to deal with disagreements about shared parenting. Sometimes, these disagreements reach a fever pitch, and parents do not know where to turn.
If you are in the middle of a dispute regarding child custody, consider the following tips from Dawes Legal, LLC. We also encourage you to call our Ohio office if you have questions about child custody or amending your custody agreement.
- Keep detailed notes. When you’re arguing with your former spouse about your children, it is important to keep detailed notes about the interactions. Save text messages and emails and write down the details of situations that led to the disagreements. Your notes could be important if you need to go back into court to amend your custody agreement.
- Consult with your lawyer. Remember, you can always contact your lawyer to help you navigate child custody issues, particularly if tensions are extremely high, and you feel like the best interests of the children are at risk. Your lawyer is familiar with your circumstances and can help you understand your options from a legal standpoint.
- Identify potential areas of compromise. “Compromise” is usually far easier said than done. But it’s important for your children that you and your former spouse make every effort to work through things amicably. This is sometimes not possible, but you should always thoroughly delve into any potential areas for compromise.
- Step away from combative situations. If your spouse is highly combative or threatening, step away from the situation. Know that you do not always have to respond to messages from your former spouse. Especially if your spouse has taken things to an unhealthy level, you do not have to continue engaging with him or her. It is best at this point to step away and cool off.
- Talk to your kids. During any heated dispute that involves your former spouse and your children, your kids need to hear from you. They need to understand they have done nothing wrong, and they need to know that they are going to continue to stay safe and loved. Try to avoid dialogue that demeans or disparages your former spouse. This behavior is not helpful for your children.
- Use your legal resources. Ohio has many resources for parents sorting through child custody battles. The state has a Child Support Enforcement Agency (CSEA) for issues with child support, numerous advocates within the justice system, and the courts themselves. You can always go back to the court that oversaw your divorce to request relief for violations of your divorce and custody agreement.
If you are in the middle of a child custody dispute, contact Dawes Legal, LLC, for legal guidance. Schedule a consultation today by calling (614) 733-9999.