After a divorce, co-parenting your shared children is one of the most important things you will do with your life. Even though the relationship with your former spouse broke down, you have the opportunity to work together and provide your child with the life they deserve.
Working together in this way comes with its own challenges, but there are ways for you to put any grievances aside and focus on your children. As experienced Texas divorce lawyers, we want to share our tips for co-parenting in Texas after a divorce based on what we see that works best for the families we represent.
#1: Follow the Parenting Plan
When your divorce is finalized, the court order includes a comprehensive Parenting Plan that sets out the details of your custody arrangement. You are required to follow this plan to the letter, and any breach of the terms could result in conflict with the other parent. If you feel as though the plan no longer suits your needs, you may be able to seek to modify it with the approval of the judge.
#2: Focus on Strong Communication
Misunderstandings can quickly escalate a non-issue into a serious conflict. Alternatively, good communication can set you and your former partner up for success when it comes to caring for your child. Create open lines of communication that allow you to discuss schedules, share documents, and talk about any concerns that might come up.
#3: Establish Routines and Stick to Them
Children are best served by a consistent routine. When it comes to former spouses attempting to co-parent, consistency can also be helpful too. Coordinating everything from school pickup to bedtime can help avoid misunderstandings and frustration. Adding a level of predictability to the lives of your children will only benefit them.
#4: Set Boundaries
As important as open lines of communication can be, maintaining boundaries with your former spouse is also crucial. It is helpful to keep in mind that while your relationship can be cordial or even pleasant, you are no longer married. While you attempt to navigate raising a child together, it is important that you respect each other’s privacy and space.
#5: Keep Children Away From Conflicts
If conflicts arise with your former spouse, you should always keep your children out of it. Even when issues are contentious, it is never helpful to drag your shared children into the problem, which can harm their relationship with both parents.
Contact Us Today to Learn More
Developing a plan for co-parenting should start long before your divorce is finalized. It should be part of your parenting plan, which is negotiated and drafted during the divorce process.
The attorneys of Baron & Associates are here to help you navigate this complex time in your life. Our Texas divorce lawyers can ensure that your rights are protected and that you are set up for success moving forward. We look forward to being able to help. Contact us today to get started.
