When parents decide to live apart, figuring out how to co-parent can get complicated. The resulting stress and strain of a child custody dispute can take a lot out of a person and lead to thoughtless mistakes.
However, preparation can keep an individual from acting rashly. With that in mind, parents should be aware of the worst mistakes they might make during child custody disputes.
1. Refusing to allow the other parent to have time with the child
Denying a child time with the other parent might feel like the right thing to do, especially when one feels justified or upset. However, a strong relationship with both parents is usually best for the child.
Keeping a child away from the other parent can hurt the child’s feelings and long-term well-being. Furthermore, such actions could also indicate to the court that a parent would put their own feelings ahead of those of the child. This behavior can backfire and harm one’s case.
2. Speaking negatively about the other parent
Parents need to avoid saying bad things about the other parent in front of the child. Granted, anger and disappointment are understandable during a custody dispute. However, burdening a child with these feelings is unhealthy and dangerous. The other parent could even raise accusations of parental alienation.
Children love both their parents, and hearing one parent speak badly about the other can make them feel sad, confused or torn between the two. Adult issues should remain between adults, and parents should try to maintain a peaceful environment for the child’s sake.
3. Being unwilling to work with the other parent
Sometimes, it might seem impossible to work together as co-parents. Yet, continually seeking a path of cooperation and communication is key to a successful outcome. A parent should remain open to compromise.
Also, an unwillingness to find a middle ground is one more area where the court might begin to see a parent as a poor role model. This could lead to an unfavorable ruling.
Child custody disputes are challenging for everyone. However, avoiding these three mistakes can help protect the child’s well-being and emotions. It also helps a parent appear more responsible and allows a person to build a stronger case for any petitions or requests to the court.