It is quite common for ex-spouses or significant others to get on your nerves and goad you into disputes that could lead to something serious, such as a restraining order or criminal charge. While we understand that these tactics are underhanded and juvenile, they happen with striking regularity and have real consequences.
Because of this, we find it prudent to remind our readers that dealing with difficult co-parents is an unfortunate downside of parenting. With that said, we offer a few helpful tips for dealing with volatile situations.
Recognize the situation – Keep in mind that a vindictive ex has an agenda. It may be to ensure that a child support order stays intact, or that they intend on moving away and may not have the court’s authority to do so (absent a protection order).
Seek court intervention – If the other parent is chronically late for exchanges or makes constant excuses for not providing the child for parenting time, it may be time for the order to be modified or for the offending parent to be held in contempt of court.
Keep your cool – Giving in to your anger essentially allows the other party to win. As we alluded to earlier, a vindictive ex may not really have the child’s best interests in mind when they needle you. It is more about power and influence than anything else; and when you lose your cool, you are letting them control you and dictate what they want.
If you have additional questions or need specific advice, an experienced Orange County family law attorney can help.
