How to Handle a Child Custody Dispute With Your Ex

Divorce is never easy and even more complicated when a child or children are involved. Child custody is a complicated issue in itself, but having to navigate a child custody dispute with an ex is even worse.

There are many factors that need to be considered and cooperating with a disagreeable ex-spouse can be a challenge. However, there are a few ways to make the process easier:

• Avoid saying negative things about your ex-spouse in front of the children. It’s easy to forget how perceptive children are and badmouthing their parent does affect them. Remember that a disagreeable spouse doesn’t always equal a disagreeable parent.
• Try to see the child custody dispute from an outside perspective. It’s easy to get caught up in the moment but taking a step back and looking at everything like it was a business transaction can help things remain civil and fair to both parties.
• Find a way to communicate with your ex-spouse in a way that both of you can agree on. As difficult as it may be, communication is one of the keys to making things work as best as can be. The priority should be the child or children and communication among parents helps to prevent further disagreements. Keep each other in the loop.
• Stay healthy and be aware of yourself. You can’t control what’s happening but you can control how you react to it.
• Keep a record of your feelings, your interactions, and what your kids are telling you (verbally and nonverbally). It’s important to recognize any patterns so that you can understand yourself and your environment and better respond to it.
• Find a positive person or mentor to help you maintain control of the things you can control.
• Remember that all the problems are not yours to take on. You’re allowed to compromise and allowed to give yourself a break.

Child Custody Laws In Florida

Child custody laws in Florida can get tricky. Generally, both parents will get equal time with the child or children, regardless of whether or not they were married (a paternity test may be administered). It is actually rare for one parent to get sole custody. Some of the standard laws - like child support until they turn 18 - are a given, but other issues such as the child’ health insurance have to be determined. Setting quiet time aside to consider all of these factors will help you to be better prepared when disputing your ex.

Advice For Child Custody Disputes

The most important issue of any child custody dispute is ensuring fairness, safety, and an overall healthy regard for the child or children involved. Listen and communicate with your child or children. This is one of the most important ways to handle a dispute. Your child or children will have their own ideas of what is happening to their family and may have input on something you hadn’t thought of. They may tell you if they don’t like a schedule or if something potentially abusive is happening. They may rebel or lash out or become withdrawn. It’s important to let them know that they can speak and that they will be heard. It may also be wise to speak to their teachers and other parents.

Contact An Attorney For Help

It’s no secret that child custody can be a complicated issue. If you have questions or concerns, contact The Estevez-Pazos Law Firm to discuss your options or call us at 305-717-7130 to set up an appointment.

Additional Reading:

Can I Get Sole Custody of My Child After Divorce

Adjusting for Changes in Child Custody During the School Year