The exchange of child custody is one of the most tenuous situations parents find themselves in and it can be even worse for the children. When parents have trouble speaking to each other or even being in the same room with each other, it can rub off on the children negatively. When it comes to exchanging child custody, both parents or guardians need to be on the same page and cognizant of their attitude and actions around the children. Let’s take a look at how you can ensure a safe child custody exchange.
Choose a Public Place
One of the best ways to ensure the exchange of child custody is safe for all involved is to choose a public place. There are plenty of locations from which to choose, including the child’s school, the police station, the fire station, the public library, the mall, and many other locations. When you pick a public location, you reduce the likelihood that a fight will occur between you and the other parent since there will be so many people around you.
Invite a Third Party
An idea that many people fail to think of is inviting a third party to every exchange of custody. When you invite a third party it should be someone neutral, who has no stake in the situation. This means that the third party should not be a grandparent from either side of the family, your best friend, or even a neighbor. It should be someone whom both sides can trust, like the child’s teacher or principal. You could even ask a police officer to come out of the station and meet with you during the exchange.
Set an Exchange Time
It is important for the two parents to set a time for the exchange and adhere to that time. Even if you think you will be a couple minutes late to the exchange, you should contact the other parent or guardian and let him or her know. This will hopefully avoid a fight between the two of you. The exchange time should be the same for as many appointments as possible and be mutually agreed upon by both of you.
Communicate Through Proven Methods
If you and the other parent or guardian have trouble communicating with each other, you should never do it using your child as the go-between. Instead, find proven methods of communication to help have a discussion with them during the exchange. This includes phone calls, text messages, emails, and handwritten notes. If you must avoid each other at all costs, you can have the third party perform the exchange of custody for you. This can help prevent arguments and other issues from arising.
Contact a Family Law Attorney
Are you having trouble with the child custody agreement that is in place? Make sure you contact the team at Moen Sheehan Meyer, Ltd. today to schedule a consultation about your situation. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the sooner you can begin fixing any issues you have with the agreement.