People in West Virginia who are going through a divorce might wonder what they can do protect their children, particularly if they have a contentious relationship with the other parent. Some people may feel as though they are caught in a bind if their ex-spouse causes a lot of problems for them but they want their children to continue having a relationship with that parent.
Even if parents are tempted to try to get custody and prevent the other parent from seeing the children, courts will generally not agree to this. They usually take the position that it is in the child’s best interest to have time with both parents as long as the child is not in danger. Instead, parents should shift their focus to what is best for their children.
This means not speaking negatively about the other parent even when provoked. Parents should also resist the temptation to feel like they need to be the “fun” parent. In fact, a parent might have to enforce stricter rules than the children have at the other parent’s house. The good news is that children usually benefit from structure and routine. Parents should give them plenty of space to talk about their feelings, and they should remember to take care of themselves as well.
Child custody can be the most difficult part of the divorce agreement for some people to negotiate because it is such an emotional topic. Even if one parent tries to use the children to manipulate the other, this is generally not reason enough for a court to stop visitation. In the parenting agreement, parents might want to establish a way to communicate, such as using online software tools for divorced parents, to reduce the likelihood of conflict. One parent may also be required to pay child support to the other.
