How To Deal With A Difficult Co-Parent

When you are trying to co-parent with somebody who retaliates against you, family issues can become much more difficult. After a relationship, things can be especially dicey. You might feel that it is more difficult to build a positive co-parenting relationship that puts the children first.

Is co-parenting becoming a challenge? Is your ex retaliating against you or causing serious problems in your relationship with your child? Here's what you should know before you see a family lawyer.

Understand The Reality of the Situation

One of the first things you need to do when you are dealing with a difficult co-parent is understand that there are likely a lot of hurt feelings involved. Take stock of the situation to determine if there are risks to your safety or the wellbeing of your children.

Choose Your Children

One of the best things you can do is acknowledge the importance of your child having a healthy relationship with this other individual. This does not mean that you should not get legal counsel, however. In fact, legal help can help make things easier.

Set Boundaries

Next, you should set and stick to firm boundaries. For instance, you might inform your ex that you are no longer taking phone calls but will accept emails or text messages. This might be because phone calls seem to get extremely hostile. You can work on establishing these boundaries in mediation or with a family lawyer.

Create a Parenting Plan

Your lawyer may also recommend that you both create a strong parenting plan. A parenting plan is a good tool because it puts legal parameters and expectations into place. Once you make the plan and it is accepted in the court, make sure that you stick with it. As long as you behave in accordance with the plan, you can trust that you are legally protected.

Avoid Engagement

Finally, avoid engaging with the other parent. You can avoid these combative relationships by ensuring you do not discuss serious topics without a lawyer present. Make sure to direct inquiries to your lawyer if you have concerns about how your words might be construed.

Get Legal Help

A professional in family law can help you recognize the challenges ahead of you with this co-parent. The good news is that a lawyer can help you establish a foundation for engagement in the future, and you may even find that going to court helps you set boundaries.


Share