Tips and Tactics for Handling Child Custody Modification Threats

A common occurrence in the post-divorce life of a formerly married couple with children is what fairly can be classified as custody modification threats. In other words, the custodial parent faces from the noncustodial parent child custody modification threats on what can prove to be a fairly regular and recurring basis. There are a number of important, effective, tips and tactics to bear in mind as a custodial parent who is experience custody modification threats from the noncustodial parent. In this regard, there are seven specific strategies we focus on in this article in regard to handling child custody modification threats:

• Documentation and record keeping
• Legal compliance with current agreement
• Child wellbeing focus
• Professional support network
• Communication strategy
• Home and environment stability
• Financial preparedness

Documentation and Record Keeping

When it comes to being as proactive as possible in regard to child custody modification threats, being a good documenter and record keeping. Maintain detailed records of all communications with ex-spouse. Indeed, this should be a solid practice in your life from the moment a divorce process itself commences.

On a related note, keep a parenting journal with dates, times, and events. This includes documenting dates, times, and associated information connected with parenting time sessions associated with the noncustodial spouse. In addition, document all custody exchanges and visitation schedules.

Keep proof of child support payments. This is another vital aspect of documentation – whether you are the parent paying or receiving child support payments.

Document any violation. In some cases, the best defense to a threat of child custody modification from the other parent is a solid offense. In his regard, make note of even what seem like minor violations.

Save all text messages, emails, and written correspondence. You can easily maintain a digital file in this regard which might prove invaluable down the road. What might seem like an innocuous communication today could be something vital if child custody modification threats arise down the road.

Legal Compliance with Current Agreement

Follow existing custody agreement meticulously. The best way to protect against custody modification threats is to always be in compliance with an existing agreement and court order.

Maintain records of following court-ordered schedules. This is a crucial aspect of remaining in judicial compliance.

If you believe changes to an existing custody or parenting time arrangement are necessary, follow the appropriate legal process. With this in mind, you are best protected and served in this regard by seeking the skilled assistance of a seasoned, committed New Jersey child custody attorney.

Child Wellbeing Focus

Always keep in mind that matters associated with child custody and parenting time is what is in the best interests of the child. With this in mind, there are some specific points to bear in mind when it comes to tactics associated with handling child custody modification. These include:

• Keep detailed records of children’s academic performance
• Document medical appointments and health records
• Save evidence of extracurricular activities involvement
• Maintain records of positive parenting activities

Professional Support Network

Never consider yourself alone when it comes to dealing with the prospect of child custody modification coming from the other parent. Professional support includes consulting a New Jersey family law attorney preemptively, as was discussed a moment ago. It also includes accessing the assistance of other professionals that include:

• Consider engaging a mediator
• Work with child’s therapist or counselor if applicable
• Build relationship with school counselors and teachers

Communication Strategy

Utilizing an appropriate communication strategy is also a vital part to best protect against unwarranted threats of custody modification. In this regard, four key elements of a solid communication strategy must be kept in mind at all times:

• Use written communication whenever possible
• Maintain professional and neutral tone
• Avoid emotional responses to provocations
• Use co-parenting apps for documentation

Home and Environment Stability

When a threat of custody modification arises, your own home environment can be brought under the spotlight. In this regard, there are components of the home environment that are of particular importance that include:

• Maintain stable living conditions
• Document home improvements for children
• Keep evidence of routine and structure
• Save records of positive family support system

Financial Preparedness

We spoke a moment ago about the value of being proactive when it comes to staving off an unwarranted child custody modification threat. Financial preparedness underpins being proactive:

• Set aside emergency legal fund
• Maintain organized financial records
• Document employment stability
• Keep records of child-related expenses

If you have questions concerning child custody modification in New Jersey, call the Law Offices of Peter Van Aulen today at (201) 845-7400 for a free consultation.