Co-Parenting Conflict Resolutions

Even though a divorce is finalized, many couples must still work together to provide the best possible parenting to their children. Divorce is often stressful and unpleasant, with mutual recriminations. If these tendencies are not checked quickly, a situation that is bad for the parents can become unbearable for the children, and no one should want that.

There are several ways that divorced co-parents can fall into disagreement, and several ways they can work to overcome their difficulties.

The co parenting tips below can help you and your ex-spouse find common ground to help you raise your children. If you have questions, you should consult experienced family law attorneys Atlanta at North Georgia Family Lawyers, LLC.

Co-Parenting Ground Rules: Conflict Resolutions

Put the child first

Your children’s interest is the goal both you and your co-parent are supposed to be working towards. Always take a moment to ask yourself what is best for the children, and then to ask yourself how your position moves their interests forward. If you can’t explain that to yourself, it may be a good time to rethink your position.

Let the past take care of the past

Rehashing old disputes won’t help your children, and the hostility may make their situation worse. Sometimes, your ex-spouse’s behavior put the children in danger. That is relevant, and you should be prepared to act upon those past events if you need to do so. Otherwise, you should look to the present and the future.

Don’t be afraid to state your position

Sometimes, people seek to avoid conflict by not stating a position and meekly going along instead. Tensions then build up and can erupt later. You are entitled to have an opinion on the rearing of your children. You should state it, respectfully, calmly, and rationally.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions

You may at times draw the wrong ideas or simply not understand what your ex-spouse wants in any co-parenting issue. Any mistake could lead to an unnecessary conflict. Instead, if you are confused about a point, stop and ask questions, in a neutral and calm tone, until you understand what your co-parent wants.

Don’t make assumptions

In the same way, you may have some past assumptions about your ex-spouse and these may color your response to any idea put forward. You should always respond to any proposal clearly and rationally and without preconceived notions.

Don’t be afraid to think quietly

If you need a moment to formulate a response to a proposal, take it. Don’t be afraid of silence. If you need more than a few moments to think, don’t hesitate to say you will get back with an answer. Do set a firm date by which you will have that answer, and stick to it.

Do choose your words carefully

You may find your temper rising as you interact with your ex-spouse. That is not conducive to careful thought and analysis, and if the children are present, it can lead to an unwanted conflict. You should always be polite, and if your children are present you are always setting an example for them for behavior.

“Winning” isn’t relevant

Raising your children with a co-parent is not a game. You don’t get extra points for having your position adopted. You should decide which issues are important to you and which issues aren’t and you should be accommodating to the position of your co-parent when you can.

Atlanta Divorce Lawyer Can Help

An Atlanta divorce lawyer, like the North Georgia Family Lawyers, LLC, has broad experience in dealing with conflicts between co-parents. We can work with our clients to de-escalate or mediate disputes and help put children first.

We have access to a wide range of allied professionals, like counselors and therapists, who can evaluate your situation and make recommendations for improvement. If mediation and negotiation completely fail, we are also prepared to help represent your side of the story in court before a judge.

However, we also realize that legal proceedings are and should be the last resort in any situation involving children. If you are faced with a fraught situation in your co-parenting arrangement and want advice, call today for a consultation.