This is the next post in my series on changing child custody in Melbourne, Florida. My last article discussed what one can expect at the trial process. It is important to understand that if proper procedures are not followed then you may be unable to admit needed evidence at your trial. Retaining an experienced family law attorney can assist you in ensuring that your case is handled correctly. In this article I will discuss the crucial step of co-parenting after your case is completed. Failing to co-parent is bad for your case and, most importantly, is not in the best interests of your children.
After your case is over the Judge will expect each parent to cooperate with the other and to move forward in a positive way. While this might not seem easy to do, this is a time when the animosity of the trial process must be put behind you so that you can focus on your child’s well-being. Specific steps you can take in trying to work with the other parent include promptly returning phone calls, quickly responding to emails, and being as cordial as possible when dealing with your ex. It is important that you not engage in a “tit for tat” when disagreements arise. Instead, it is important to take a mature approach and to work at ending the argument rather than escalating it.
Tips for ending arguments, or keeping them from blowing out of proportion, include maintaining a calm voice, refraining from name calling, and understanding that you do not have to “win” the argument. Quite often couples will argue over a detail which, in the grand scheme of things, is rather inconsequential. It is not uncommon, for example, for couples to argue over a pick up/drop off time even though either of the proposed times work fine for both sides; parents often simply want to win the discussion. By not engaging in disagreements over non-issues such as these you help to ensure that tensions dissipate and that the child is put in the best possible environment.
If you have questions following the completion of a child custody case then contact my office today to speak with a Melbourne family law attorney. My office also services clients in the Brevard County cities of Titusville, Cocoa, Palm Bay, Grant, Valkaria, and Rockledge, as well as in the Indian River County areas of Fellsmere, Sebastian, Vero Beach, Indian River Shores, and Orchid.