Tips on reaching amicable custody agreements

On Behalf of | Aug 2, 2017 | Child Custody, Firm News |

Florida has one of the highest divorce rates in the United States. In fact, data indicates approximately 80,000 divorces took place in the state in 2015 alone.

There are many stressful details spouses need to work through in a divorce. Perhaps none are as stressful as determining child custody. In many cases, figuring out a custody arrangement can get emotional, especially if the two parents are on completely opposite ends of the spectrum on what they want to do. Unless there is a specific reason to exclude a parent from any kind of custody, joint custody is the norm. When trying to bring a custody battle to a conclusion, it is important to keep the following tips in mind so that everyone ends up satisfied.

Think about what is best for the children

When two spouses divorce, it is important that they both try to keep things as normal as possible for the kids. That means keeping kids in the same school and allowing them to continue their favorite activities. If one parent is going to live far away from the kids’ schools, then perhaps it would be best for children to live a majority of the time with the parent who lives closer. The former spouses can establish a visitation schedule where the kids see one parent every weekend or every other weekend.

Talk to the kids

A big reason why divorce so greatly affects children is that they feel like their lives are uncontrollably changing, and they have no input. Talking to kids, if they are old enough, about custody and visitation is a good way to give them a voice. Sometimes simply allowing children to express their emotions can be therapeutic for everybody.

Speak positively of the other parent

It is vital for children to respect both parents after a divorce. It will make things so much simpler, so it is important for both parents to never speak negatively of the other. If a person needs to vent frustrations about the other parent, then he or she needs to find a friend or family member to speak with. Kids need to grow up respecting both adults.