How to Keep Joint Child Custody Exchanges Cordial

Even when the divorce proceedings are amicable, it can be difficult to completely put aside feelings of bitterness or resentment towards your ex-spouse. This can create many obstacles for divorced parents who have a joint custody agreement to take care of their children.

a child caught between arguing parents


Although custody exchanges can be a great point to communicate with your ex, things can also go south pretty quickly when the parents don’t get along. Keep reading for some tips on how you can keep child custody exchanges cordial.

1. Prepare for the Exchange

It’s important that before your children leave, they have everything packed and ready to go by the time your ex comes to pick them up. Create a list of all the items that the children need, such as medications, school work, toys, clothes, and study materials. This can help keep things organized at the time of the exchange.

a girl with all essential packed


If you have everything ready, it can minimize the contact you have with your ex by taking some time off the swap and easing tensions.

2. Choose a Public Setting

If you’re worried that meeting in a private setting could result in an outburst, consider opting for a public space to make the exchange. Generally, people are more restrained in public because they don’t want to make a scene. There are a number of locations you can choose for the exchange:

· At School. You can drop off the kids at school in the morning, and your ex can come to pick them up in the afternoon. Depending on your child’s age, they may require supervision.

· At Daycare. Much like the school drop-off, an exchange at the daycare or babysitter’s can help you avoid confrontation and unpleasant encounters.

· At a Neutral Public Location. Use a public place where both parents will be cordial such as the mall, coffee shop, or a restaurant.

3. Get a Neutral Third Party for the Exchange

If you’re worried that an exchange might still blow up, a good technique is to get a third person involved that both parents mutually trust and respect. This can help put both parents on their best behavior. In the event that the situation becomes volatile, you’ll have a witness to recount the experience accurately.

About The Law Offices of Ron Marquez

The Law Offices of Ron Marquez is a general practice firm from Chico that offers legal services related to child custody and visitation, divorce proceedings, and family law. Call at 530-332-8110 to schedule a free case evaluation or visit their website for more information.

 

This article does not provide legal advice and is written for information purposes only. Reading the content of this article or information contained on this site, or the transmission of information from or to this site does not constitute an attorney-client relationship.

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