How Clashes Can Arise Even When Parents Are Committed to Working Cooperatively
It can often be perplexing to see reasonable parents nonetheless end up in brutal custody disputes, often when the marriage wasn’t that contentious or when the parties have made a commitment to work together to minimize discord. Why does that happen? Where do the best-laid plans go off the rails?
Custody Disputes the Exception Rather than the Rule
According to the National Center for Health Statistics, the vast majority of divorce complaints are settled (approximately 90% or more). Unfortunately, though, about one in every 10 divorce proceedings ends up being resolved through the adversarial process, even when the parties initially hope to amicably resolve their differences.
Understanding Why Reasonable Parents Can Still Engage in Heated or Brutal Custody Battles
Experts point to a number of factors that contribute to acrimony when it comes to child custody:
- Custody is essentially an emotional matter—The bond with your child is an emotional one and emotions are not necessarily rational. Conversations or discussions about parenting time can trigger irrational responses. When former spouses have new partners, it can be easy for feelings of jealousy or alienation to surface. None of these responses are rational, but many are expressed before the parties have the time to think them through.
- Our legal system is inherently adversarial—Lawyers are trained and, pursuant to the code of ethics, must zealously represent their clients within the bounds of the law. If a parent feels that his or her relationship or time with a child is threatened in any way, the adversarial system provide a means for “fighting” for his/her rights.
- The law can be ambiguous—Texas law places a premium on the “best interests of the child.” Unfortunately, there’s often room for disagreement about what that really means.
- Communication can often break down—Even the most well-intentioned parents can be unclear, leading to different interpretations of both physical and legal custody
Contact DTX Family Law for Sound Advice Regarding Modification of a Divorce Decree in a Texas Divorce
At DTX Family Law, we built our reputation and practice by focusing on the needs and best interests of our clients. We have an extensive knowledge and understanding of Texas divorce laws and procedures. We’ll carefully explain your rights and options, as well as your chances of success, so that you can make good decisions for you and your family. Chrysandra is board-certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, an honor earned by less than one of every ten family law attorneys in the state. To schedule an appointment with a proven and effective Texas family lawyer, visit our website or call our offices at 940-566-0606.
Handling Divorce and Family Law Matters throughout Denton and the surrounding communities, including Denton, Collin, Wise, Tarrant and Cooke counties and the municipalities of Keller, Euless, Hurst, Colleyville, Bedford, Crowley, Lake Worth, Benbrook, Haslet, Saginaw, Watauga, Richland Hills, White Settlement, River Oaks, Forest Hill, Kennedale, Westover Hills, Lakeside, Pelican Bay and North Richland Hills