As some North Carolina residents know, divorce is a complex process that can become even more complicated when children are involved. Having children means that the divorce negotiations will not just focus on the division of property. The final agreements must address custody issues and support payments as well. Once the divorce is finalized, then the work of co-parenting begins.
When negotiating child custody, parents should already be thinking about how they will work together to raise the children. As they design their parenting plan, they might also consider how they will communicate with each other when it comes to children-related issues. To avoid serious confrontations, they might choose to use technology such as email, text messaging and apps designed to help families communicate.
Parents might also use the negotiations to agree on a set of rules that can be followed in both homes so that children will have more stability and consistency. The rules can be simple and allow each parent to build their relationship with the kids in their own way. Parents can also benefit from the use of calendars that clearly post the children’s schedules, including when they will be with each parent, where they will spend their holidays and other important events.
Negotiating the issues that will affect the children after divorce can be a delicate endeavor. That’s why a parent may choose to seek guidance from a lawyer knowledgeable who can help with the negotiations and court appearances. An attorney could help a client fight for a fair custody agreement.