On behalf of Stange Law Firm, PC posted in Child Custody on Thursday, August 31, 2017.
There are many reasons why an Illinois parent might consider a former spouse to be toxic. Previous instances of abuse or neglecting the children may make it easy to label someone toxic. However, this label may also be applied by someone who is upset or scared about the prospect of getting a divorce. In the event that a former spouse or partner truly was toxic, there are specific steps to take to make co-parenting easier.
First, it is important for a parent to remember that the needs of the child are more important than the feelings of the adults. This may make it easier to overlook the other parent’s behavior and work toward helping the child. It may also be a good idea to take stock of what may trigger an unwanted response from an ex and avoid these behaviors as much as possible.
Parents should never talk poorly about each other when the children are around. Furthermore, parents should encourage their children to have a relationship with the other parent. Doing so allows children to have both parents in their lives without having to choose between them.
In any child custody matter, the top priority is protecting the best interest of the child. Parents may help to preserve the best interests of a child by maintaining a civil relationship with their child’s other parent. If necessary, an attorney may help an individual earn custody or visitation rights to a son or daughter. In most cases, parents are allowed to have a relationship with their children as long as it doesn’t put a minor in danger.
