How to effectively share custody of a child

On Behalf of | Jul 25, 2020 | Child Custody |

It isn’t uncommon for divorced parents in New Hampshire or elsewhere to share physical custody of their children. In some cases, parents may be responsible for raising their children together even if they don’t necessarily like each other. However, there are steps that mothers and fathers can take to make the process of raising a child with a former spouse. For instance, it is important for parents to put aside their own feelings and think about how their words and actions impact their children.

Children who hear negative comments about their parents may begin to internalize the messages that they are receiving. It is also important to remember that a person who may not have been a good spouse may still be a good parent. Therefore, it is generally best to not say anything that could make it harder for that person to do his or her job effectively.

Individuals are encouraged to avoid conflict with their former spouses regarding their parenting choices whenever possible. This is because a conflict may ultimately be resolved by a judge, and there is a chance that neither side will like what the judge has to say. Ideally, parents will look at their current custody arrangement periodically to ensure that it still works as intended. Typically, a child custody order will need to be modified as a son or daughter gets older.

A child custody order is based on what is in the best interests of the child as opposed to what is in the best interests of the parents. An attorney may help an individual learn how to handle custody disputes or other disagreements that may arise in a civil and mature manner. A legal representative may also help a parent pursue changes to an existing child custody order.