How to Co-Parent with a High Conflict Ex
Divorce is a difficult journey for every member of the family. When you get married and have children, the last thing on your mind is the end of the marriage. When you go through a divorce, your number one goal is to raise your children in a stable and loving environment. But what do you do when your ex is making co-parenting feel impossible?
Emotions can Cloud Judgment
There is so much emotion tied up in divorce, and that emotion bleeds over into other family relationships. If you and your ex have gone through a difficult breakup, it can be challenging to come together and compromise over the children’s best interest. It is an all-too-common occurrence that the hurt former spouse will use the children as ammunition to get back at the ex, but the only ones who are hurt are the kids themselves.
Finding Common Ground
In a perfect world, both parents would be able to put emotions aside to focus on the children, but that is easier said than done. There may be circumstances where both parents are determined to have things go their way without realizing the strain being placed on the children. Finding common ground when it comes to co-parenting is essential for everyone to thrive. A great place to start is a healthy parenting plan that lays out detailed instructions for education, healthcare, visitation times, and other areas of contention. If need be, a parenting plan can also limit how the parents communicate with each other and how pick up and drop off will occur.
Reach Out for Help
Creating a new normal after divorce is the best way to bring stability to your kids. Even if your children do not seem outwardly affected by the divorce, it is a good idea to schedule sessions with a family therapist experienced with divorce. Having someone to talk to can be a great stress reliever for kids and parents alike.
At Lake Harriet Law, we work diligently for our clients, to help them receive the best terms in their divorce, including a fair and equitable financial settlement. If you are considering a divorce, contact our team to begin designing a legal strategy to protect your future.
Randall A. Smith – Managing Attorney 612-750-4843
Taylor Blatchford – Student Attorney 612-223-8925
McKenzie Harter – Student Attorney 612-223-8925
Esther Raty – Student Attorney 612-223-8925
Sophia Maietta – Student Attorney 612-223-8925