Promoting Cooperation and Civility During Your Child Custody Case

 Posted on August 30, 2022 in Child Custody

Whether you are an unmarried parent or currently going through a divorce, child custody matters are never easy. Parents can disagree about what is best for their children, and these disagreements sometimes escalate into full-blown child custody disputes. If you are currently involved in a child custody case, there is no way to completely eliminate conflict. However, there are some things you can do to promote cooperation and civility.

Tips for Reducing Conflict and Encouraging Cooperation in Your Custody Dispute

First, remember that your children come first. It is important to put their needs above your own and to try to make decisions that are in their best interests. Of course, this is often easier said than done. Parents sometimes get so caught up in their own emotions that they forget what is best for their children. If you find yourself in this situation, take a step back and try to remember why you are doing this in the first place.

Second, be willing to compromise. It may be best to work with your attorney and decide which issues you are and are not willing to compromise on. For example, you may insist that your child stays in a certain school district but would be willing to negotiate the specifics of the parenting time schedule.

Third, be respectful. This means not only respecting the other parent but also respecting the court system and those who are involved in your case. If you act out of anger or lash out at the other parent, it will only make matters worse and could damage your case.

Collaborative Law for Child Custody Matters

Collaborative law is a process of dispute resolution that can be extremely beneficial to parents. It allows both sides to come together and work cooperatively to resolve their differences. The process is confidential, which means that anything said during the course of the negotiations cannot be used later if the case goes to trial. Parents can also work with outside experts in addition to their respective divorce lawyers. For example, parents may choose to work with a child custody evaluator or child mental health specialist to help them come to an agreement.

Contact a Kane County Family Law Attorney for Assistance

For many parents dealing with divorce and child custody issues, reducing conflict is a top priority. Aurora family law attorney Matthew M. Williams can help you explore all of your options for resolving your child custody disagreement. Call 630-409-8184 for a confidential consultation.

Source:

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=3804&ChapterID=59