There is nothing simple about divorce, particularly when there is a child involved. It is one of the single most stressful events in your life. Once the divorce is over, you hope that you can put it all behind you. You breathe a deep sigh of relief, steel your reserve, and begin venturing out into your new life as a single person with a child. However, it might not be that easy.

Many parents find that embarking on their post-divorce life is complicated by an unreasonable ex who makes co-parenting difficult if not impossible. What can you do in this situation?

Insist on Good Communication

Co-parenting is difficult even in the best of circumstances. When your ex decides to be unreasonable or vindictive, it becomes even more challenging. One of the few ways to improve things is to insist on good communication between you and your ex. How?

  • Insist on having access to scheduling information.
  • Make sure that you share information with your ex in a timely, direct manner.
  • Use non-face-to-face communication methods if necessary, such as phone calls and even email.

Don’t Stoop to Their Level

It’s tempting to act badly in the face of bad behavior. However, do not stoop to their level. Treat your ex the way that you want to be treated. If nothing else, this provides better ground for any future legal issues that you might face should you find that you need to go back to court for enforcement of visitation.

Be There, Always

Even if your ex is being difficult when it comes to visitation, make sure you show up on time, every time. Keep a log of the visitation days that you were denied, and make a note of your arrival time as well as any communication between you and your ex prior to your arrival or when you arrive.

Find a Neutral Party

Even with the best of intentions, it may be impossible for you and your ex to communicate in any positive manner. In these instances, it may be necessary to enlist the help of a neutral third party. Note that family members (on either side) rarely make a good option, as they’re almost always biased. Instead, friends of the family may work as neutral territory. Even your attorney may be able to help in some ways, such as working with your ex’s attorney to ensure your child receives therapy for the damage being done to their mental and emotional health.

Get Legal Help

Finally, if your ex continues to be unreasonable despite your best efforts, and particularly if they are denying you your parental rights as spelled out in the divorce (visitation, decision-making regarding things in your child’s life, etc.), then it may be necessary to consider legal action against your ex.

If you find yourself in this situation, contact the Law Offices of Sharita Blacknall. Call 214-678-9111 to schedule a free consultation on your situation today.