Many divorcing parents believe that after a divorce, they will never have to speak to their spouse again. On the contrary, when children are involved in a divorce, communication is essential to successful co-parenting which can help ease the process for the children during and after the divorce. At the Whittemore Law Firm, we believe a solid parenting plan featuring co-parenting can help avoid some of the potential negative effects of divorce on kids.
Co-Parenting and Divorce
Co-parenting is the process of two parents working together during the divorce process to create a parenting plan, and after the divorce is final sharing the duties and responsibilities of raising their children. It is not simply about when to pick up the kids for their parenting time, or about dealing with the children’s medical issues, education, or extra-curricular activities, but co-parenting is putting aside parents’ differences to communicate and make decisions in the best interests of the children. Courts require parents with minor children to take classes on parenting and co-parenting during their divorce case.
Parenting During and After a Divorce
Even though parents are going through divorce, family courts in Texas encourage parents to reach an agreement regarding a parenting plan for their children. A parenting plan is included in the divorce decree whether it is agreed to by the parents or determined by the Judge. Courts prefer that parents work together to create a parenting plan that is right for their children, so co-parenting concepts become more important when doing so. If parents cannot agree, Texas courts will step in and issue a parenting plan regarding conservatorship, possession, and access to the children. Typically, the court will use defaults found in the Texas Family Code, such as a standard possession order (SPO) which defines when each parent will have possession of and access to the children.
Whether the parenting plan has been created by the divorcing parents, or it is a parenting plan issued by the Court, parents will need to communicate with each other after the divorce regarding their children’s well-being. Some caught up in a divorce believe they will never need to deal with their former spouse again, but that is not likely to be the case. If ex-spouses can learn to co-parent, it will be much better for the children and will lead to better decisions for their children’s futures.
Top Houston Law Firm Handles Family Law
Whittemore Law Firm is dedicated to helping clients navigate difficult family law issues. Whittemore Law Firm serves clients in The Woodlands, Conroe, Montgomery County, Houston, Harris County, and throughout the surrounding area. If you need help, Whittemore Law Firm can help you protect your rights and the rights of your children. For a free 20-minute consultation, contact the Whittemore Law Firm at 832-215-3706.
