Raising a child can be difficult enough without having to deal with antics from your child’s other parent. However, as Florida law typically allows both parents to have a relationship with a child after a divorce or separation, you’ll likely need to work with your former partner. The following are some steps you can take if your former partner proves to be difficult.
Stay focused on your goal
Your goal as a parent is to make sure that your child has a happy and safe environment to grow and thrive. Therefore, it’s important to refrain from saying anything bad about the other parent in front of your child. Instead, talk to your former partner in private away from the child if an issue arises. You may also want to consider communicating through email or other means, and any messages that are sent should be focused solely on what needs to be done to meet your child’s needs.
Raise concerns with the court
If you have concerns about your child’s safety while with the other parent, don’t hesitate to raise them with the local court. A judge may be willing to adjust a child custody order or take other steps to ensure that your child’s needs are met. It’s important to note that taking action to keep your child away from the other parent without a judge’s blessing can result in losing your own custody or visitation rights.
Generally speaking, not agreeing with your former partner’s parenting style isn’t enough to change or revoke a child custody agreement. However, if you have proof that your son or daughter is being subjected to verbal, physical or other forms of abuse, it may be possible to keep your child away from a potentially unfit parent. The same may be true if your child witnesses other people or animals being mistreated.