If you have children together, it’s even more difficult to decide in favor of a divorce. However, if your marriage is no longer working, it’s something you strongly need to consider. Should you go down this path, it’s critical to turn your immediate attention to the well-being of your children.
During the divorce process, you’ll find yourself face to face with a variety of issues regarding child custody. Since you want to do what’s in the best interest of your children, it’s critical that you work together to resolve these issues. It’s easier said than done, but there are steps you can take to help the cause.
Here are some ideas to consider:
- Informal negotiations: Should you and your spouse still be on speaking terms, you may be able to negotiate the terms of your parenting agreement without any outside influence. You don’t want to finalize anything until you consult with an attorney, but it’s okay to discuss your options with your soon-to-be ex-spouse.
- Mediation: Through mediation, you and your spouse work together to negotiate and compromise your way to a parenting agreement and visitation schedule. With the help of a mediator, you will move through the process in an efficient manner.
- Litigation: Should informal negotiations and mediation come up empty, you may have no choice but to move your case to the courtroom. It’s not ideal, as you bring a family law judge into the equation, but it’s often necessary in the event that you can’t resolve your issues outside of court.
Regardless of the steps you take, the primary goal is to resolve all child custody related issues on your way to creating a parenting agreement. Your agreement will outline a variety of details, including but not limited to:
- The parent who has physical custody
- If you’re sharing legal custody
- A visitation schedule for the non-custodial parent
- A schedule for where your children will spend special events, such as holidays
It should be your goal to resolve all child custody issues by working together, not against one another. When you do this, it’s easier to keep the peace while also taking steps that will benefit your children.
