Even though you and your former spouse may have your differences, you should have one thing in common. This commonality should be to work in the best interest of your child. And to do so, a healthy co-parenting relationship is necessary. Follow along to find out how to achieve a successful co-parenting relationship and how one of the proficient Hudson County child custody attorneys at Greenberg & Walden, LLC can lead you down the right path.
What are the different types of custody?
First of all, as you are undergoing your divorce, you must understand the different types of child custody agreements that a New Jersey family judge will choose from. They are as follows:
- Physical custody: this is granted to one spouse with whom the child will spend the majority of their time.
- Legal custody: this is granted to one spouse who will have the right to make important decisions regarding the child’s upbringing.
- Joint custody: this is granted if both spouses are capable of working together to equally split time with their child and equally make decisions in the child’s best interest.
And so, more often than not, a judge will decide to grant joint custody over a child. This is because New Jersey law holds that a child benefits most by having a relationship with both parents. With joint custody, you and your former spouse will inevitably have to co-parent.
How can my former spouse and I achieve a healthy co-parenting relationship?
As with most relationships, communication is key for co-parenting relationships. That is, the goal of every conversation you have with your former spouse should be to serve your child’s well-being. This means that should talk to each other with respect, listen to each other’s opinions, and keep your conversations child-focused.
You may even find it helpful to set a schedule for when to speak with one another. And even if you have a disagreement or other negative emotions toward one another, you should not ignore each other’s phone calls or messages.
With that being said, below are some more tips for achieving a healthy co-parenting relationship:
- Set aside your resentment and anger to work in the best interest of your child.
- Work together to form similar rules, disciplines, and schedules your child can follow in each household.
- Work together to make important medical, educational, and financial decisions for your child.
- Do not talk poorly about your former spouse to your child.
- Do not make your child feel like they have to “pick a side.”
- Do not go against your court-ordered child custody agreement.
- Do not show up late when picking up or dropping off your child.
- Do not be resistant to compromise.
For additional tips, reach out to one of the talented Hudson County family law attorneys. We look forward to collaborating with you.
