What Are The Best Ways to Handle a High-Conflict Custody Battle in NJ?

When you are going through a divorce, the most complex issue for many couples is determining custody of their child. Unfortunately, this can quickly become contentious, with both parents willing to go to any means necessary to get more time with their child. However, this can create an unhealthy situation for all involved, including your children. As such, it’s imperative to do what you can to handle a high-conflict custody battle with care to reduce its impact on your family. Luckily, the following blog explores what you should know if this reflects your circumstances and why connecting with New Jersey child custody attorneys is necessary to explore your legal options.

What Makes a Custody Battle High-Conflict?

When you are in a custody battle, it’s not uncommon for tempers to flare. This could be because one parent is still hurt by the other’s actions, a parent feels they are entitled to more time with the child than the other, or a mixture of both. Regardless, parents may do and say hurtful, mean things to “punish” the other parent.

Most commonly, this manifests as arguments between the parents. You may find that one parent purposely makes inflammatory comments to get under the skin of the other, causing an argument to ensue. Additionally, you may feel constantly ignored or disrespected by the other parent, leading to frustration and anger.

Unfortunately, these matters are incredibly complex, and you may discover that the child suffers most. Being constantly exposed to arguing or hearing bad things about their parent from the other can cause the child to feel conflicted and guilty.

What Can I Do to Minimize the Impact of a Contentious Custody Battle?

During a back-and-forth battle with your ex over your child, taking the necessary steps to mitigate the damages is critical. Generally, the most important thing you can do is ignore any inflammatory or provoking texts from your ex. Remain neutral and calm when speaking with them, and only respond when the message is about your child.

You should also avoid speaking negatively about the other parent online, as this can be used against you in court. However, it’s imperative to remain positive when speaking about your child’s other parent in front of your little one. When your child is exposed to negative comments from both parents, it can make them feel like they need to pick a side, which can be incredibly overwhelming for them to deal with.

Finally, you should adhere to the temporary parenting plan set in place by the courts until yours has been finalized. Returning your child late, refusing to let their other parent see them when it’s their time, or failing to share critical information can only hurt your case and your child.

As you can see, navigating a custody battle can be incredibly overwhelming. As such, you should place your case in the experienced hands of an attorney with Haber Silver Russoniello & Dunn. Our team is ready to help you navigate these matters to fight for the best interest of you and your family. Contact us today to discuss your circumstances further.