In the ideal custody arrangement, both parents will share time with their child without hostility. But visitation exchanges can often be a time of conflict between parents. The emotions wrapped up in the divorce can spill over into what should be quality time with the child. After all, there are now schedules and rules for when the visiting parenting can see his or her child. On the other hand, the custodial parent will have to interact with someone he or she is taking to court. Visitation does not have to be a stressful event. Both the parent with custody and with visitation can benefit from these simple tips.
Be careful what you say to the other parent
It may be tempting to vent your frustrations and say something harsh to the other parent. But this will almost certainly backfire, especially if it’s said in front of the child. You will likely hear something about it from the other lawyer. Even worse, the judge is probably going to learn about it too. If the other parent has said something inappropriate or is trying to provoke you to do so, hold your tongue. Let your Nampa child custody attorney deal with in the appropriate forum: the courtroom.
Don’t use visitation as a time to litigate
In a similar vein, visitation is no time for the parents to attempt to resolve major difficulties. Even if you can discuss things calmly, you risk saying something that you should keep between you and your Nampa child custody attorney. Not to mention, if you’re the visiting parent, you only have a limited amount of time with your child. Don’t waste this precious time with your child by arguing things that are better left to an Idaho courtroom.
Take note of problems – and tell your Nampa child custody attorney
Visiting and custodial parents should make a mental note of any issues that arise during the exchange. For example, the custodial parent may be late to the exchange or act rudely during the pickup or drop off. If the exchanges take place at the custodial parent’s house, the visiting parent should note any unsafe or unsanitary conditions. The custodial parent should keep an eye out for inappropriate behavior by the visiting parent as well.
Once you get a chance, jot down notes about anything relevant to the custody case and tell your Nampa child custody attorney. However, in some instances, the other parent may be engaging in serious behavior such as driving the child while intoxicated. If there’s an immediate threat to your child’s safety or well-being, alert authorities first and then notify your attorney.
Use all of your visitation time
Before finalizing a court order or agreement, you should think about how much time you want with your child, and how much time you can realistically handle. Parents in Nampa, Idaho often complain that they don’t have enough time to see their children. But not all parents actually use all of the time allocated to them. They may miss visitation or holiday events, show up late, and cancel time with their kids. Not using all of your time makes it more difficult to convince the judge you should have more. It may also prompt the other parent to ask that you have less. Use all visitation time to the best of your ability.
Use the time with your child wisely
Visitation with your child should be special. Although you can’t always do something exciting and fun, you should make the most of the time you have. Don’t just go home and watch television all weekend, if you can help it. You should be spending your time in a way that’s beneficial for you and your child. Don’t let the other parent have an excuse to tell the judge he or she can spend that time better.
When to Call a Nampa Child Custody Attorney
Even if you follow these tips, disagreements may arise between you and the other parent. Unfortunately, the easiest time to bring these up is often during the exchange. Minor requests such as making sure homework is done on time will likely not upset your visitation. But more serious issues should be brought to your lawyer’s attention. When you notice problems, however, be smart with how you handle them. A Nampa child custody attorney at the Idaho Divorce Center can help you get the most out of visitation with your child. Call today.
