On behalf of The Law Office of Gustavo E. Frances, P.A.
The holiday season has arrived and with it many challenges for divorcing couples, particularly those who have minor children. Children tend to have a hard time coping with new holiday traditions and a different schedule from the one they are accustomed to. In the midst of chaos, you can still have the holidays you wished for. You can plan ahead and have a special time with your family. But what happens when your former spouse becomes contentious and revengeful?
Dealing with a difficult ex during the holidays can be frustrating. The good news is a Fort Lauderdale family law attorney can help you with all family law areas, including child custody.
While no family is perfect, there are things you can do to improve your situation. With understanding and flexibility, you and your former spouse may be able to plan out convenient time schedules and make sure your children have a special holiday season.
Keep Your Children Out of The Conflict
Your focus should be on experiencing the excitement of the season. Don’t bother your kids with the conflict you and your former spouse should handle. Remember your children’s relationship with the other parent will continue the same and you don’t want to ruin that. You should always encourage your children to respect your former spouse. If your ex-picks fights with you, avoid in-person communication methods. There are some things that you should avoid discussing in front of your children. Also, encourage your children to keep in touch with extended family. Remember children will eventually learn to appreciate the people that truly matter in their lives.
Get Your Unwanted Emotions Under Control
While it is natural for unwanted feelings to rise to the surface, you must learn to control your reactions. Avoid any stressful situation for you and for your children. Your children should also be encouraged to talk about their feelings and you should help them find a constructive way to vent.
Planning Ahead
In order to avoid conflict, it is important you and the other parent talk about specific dates and times. Respect your Parenting Plan or you may be held in contempt of court. If you want to make any changes make sure you contact your attorney first. You should document any changes in writing. You can always ask your children and family their opinion and find out what traditions they would like to keep.
Enjoy The Holiday Season!
This is not a time to compete with the other parent or create unnecessary conflict. It is time to celebrate and reconcile your differences. Being a good co-parent is hard work but it can benefit your children in so many ways. It is important to reach out to a family law lawyer in your area if you have a legal matter to attend. But above all, enjoy the most wonderful time of the year!
When you need an attorney, you can contact us by click here or calling at 954-533-2756 for a free consultation.
