Many divorced parents in Wisconsin actively try to work together to ensure the well-being of their children. They understand the importance of children having positive relationships with both parents. This usually goes beyond honoring visitation agreements. It also requires both parents to not undermine each other’s parental authority as well as a willingness to be flexible about how much time a child spends with each of them.
In some cases, however, parents without physical custody may begin to feel left out of their child’s life. In most divorces, the father ends up being the non-custodial parent, and some dads may feel as if their relationship is being “managed” by the children’s mother. In some cases, this sort of issue can be easily resolved with frank and open communication between the parents.
Unfortunately, there are instances in which the mother may not be receptive to such feedback. She may seek to further restrict communications between the child and the father. In addition, the mother may be unreasonable about commonplace issues such as changing visitation schedules or even allowing the noncustodial parent to be involved with decisions regarding the child’s education and health care despite the fact that there is joint legal custody.
Child custody disputes can be damaging to all involved. Family law attorneys will tell their clients that the most important consideration is the best interests of the child, yet many parents think that these disputes are more like battles, with a winner and a loser. In these types of situations, the alternative of mediation may be a better way to seek a resolution than protracted litigation.
