Co-Parenting After Divorce: Tips for Success
A divorce is often a stressful and challenging experience for each person involved. There will usually be many matters requiring careful consideration, however when children are involved, the complexity and emotional strain of a relationship breakdown will often be greater. Establishing clear and consistent communication methods, supporting the child’s needs and interests, and establishing boundaries and parenting plans, are imperative ways to cope with co-parenting after divorce.
With that in mind, how should co-parenting be approached?
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Let’s start with communication
It’s important for both parents to agree on a way of communicating. This might simply involve texts or calls where separations have been amicable, or for others may involve the use of communication apps such as MyMob and Divvito which limit profanity and allow the sharing of notes and calendars.
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Once both parents have found a way to communicate, a parenting plan may be the next best step.
A parenting plan is an agreement that suitably details the arrangement for care of any children involved in the relationship. Therefore, the aspects addressed in the plan should reflect the individual needs of the child depending on factors such as the child’s age and care needs. The plan should address matters such as:
- Contact arrangements;
- Education;
- Decision making;
- Financial responsibility;
Formal orders can be sought where an agreement cannot be achieved in accordance with the Family Law Act 1975.
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Remember to prioritise the needs of the child and their best interests
Importantly, the best interests of the child should be the paramount consideration when negotiating co-parenting arrangements. This means supporting the emotional needs of the child, supporting the relationship between the child and each parent, and avoiding involving the child in conflict.
It is also crucial to avoid Parental Alienation, which involves one parent alienating or estranging the child from the other parent by manipulating the child. Studies have indicated that the most effective method for reducing conflict with an ex-partner is to focus on promoting the best interests of the child.
Although divorce can be an extremely difficult experience, there are ways to manage co-parenting with an ex-partner to reduce conflict and stress. Remembering to communicate effectively, having an organised plan and ensuring the child comes first, will support an easier method for co-parenting. Where parenting arrangements cannot be amicably decided, mediation may be a necessary step.
Kate Scolyer – Solicitor– Matthies Lawyers
Should you wish to obtain advice regarding your family law matters, please contact Matthies Lawyers for an obligation-free consultation or call +61 3 8692 2517 today.
Disclaimer: This article contains general information only and is not intended to be a substitute for obtaining legal advice