Child custody, property division, and alimony are amongst the most heated and contentious subject matters in any area of law. Unfortunately, this trifecta of issues arises simultaneously when married couples with children divorce. No matter how thoughtful parents are in shielding their children, high-conflict divorces put children in a precarious position beyond their emotional maturity. However, it is well worth your time and effort to take every step necessary to protect your children through your divorce process.
Protecting Your Children When Your Divorce is Conflicted
First, practice mindfulness in how you talk about the other parent. As parents, many of us had to consciously train ourselves to tone down our profanity in the presence of our children. The same applies when it comes to divorce. Children don’t listen when you want them to but seem to always listen when you don’t want them to. Children tend to be sponges and want to please their parents, so it is not uncommon for children to repeat or adopt what they hear. Therefore, be thoughtful about when and how you discuss your divorce, your feelings, your disagreements, and your complaints.
On that note, you should also work on establishing boundaries about when and how you communicate with the other parent. If you are unable to speak or see each other without fighting, then consider a plan to limit your contact. Your children do not need to be witnesses to further conflict. Also, for child pickup and drop-offs, consider the school, relatives, or other third parties to facilitate the exchange.
Finally, we would recommend that you utilize and rely on family counselors and therapists. Many experienced professionals understand how to work with parents and children who are in the midst of divorce proceedings. These counselors can provide an expert, outside perspective about how you can guard and protect your children’s emotional well-being.
Courts Are Paying Attention
Courts understand that it is emotionally detrimental for children to be torn between their parents. The law assumes that children should have healthy, ongoing relationships with their parents. In contrast, courts must also consider whether a parent has demonstrated that he or she will stand in the way of the other parent’s relationship with the child. This reflects poorly on the parent and can result in a limitation in custody or visitation rights.
Family Law Representation from Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P.
Your children deserve stability and certainty to move forward after your divorce. At Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman, L.L.P., we understand and appreciate what it means to be a parent and fight to protect our clients’ parental rights. Our attorneys are tough, proven professionals who regularly handle high-conflict divorces. Let us help you. Call Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P. today at (775) 227-2280 to schedule a consultation or contact our office through our website.