If you and your ex-husband are cooperating after a Virginia divorce, co-parenting is likely to go smoothly. Problems arise when one parent refuses to communicate or to make reasonable compromises. Parental apathy is another roadblock to successful co-parenting after Virginia divorce. What Is An Apathetic Co-Parent? An apathetic co-parent is a parent who is lax about his or her responsibilities. Dealing with an apathetic co-parent can be very frustrating.In many cases, the apathetic co-parent was not very involved in the children's lives during the marriage, and is simply continuing their old behavior in a new situation.
During a marriage, it's fairly easy for the more involved parent to pick up the slack and make sure the children are getting what they need, but after a Virginia divorce, distance, custody and visitation arrangements might make it impossible for that to continue.
The apathetic parent is forced to handle some of the childrearing responsibilities on his or her own, and this usually doesn't go as well as it could. Usually, the apathetic co-parent is the non-custodial parent, but this isn't always the case. How to Deal With an Apathetic Co-Parent After Your Virginia Divorce
The best way to handle an apathetic co-parent is to communicate. A breakdown in communication is one major cause of Virginia divorce, and these issues are likely to continue or worsen once the marriage is over.
You should be persistent in encouraging honest, straightforward communication about your differences regarding the children. Therapy can be useful to help learn better communication skills, too. When dealing with an apathetic co-parent, you will sometimes need to simply take the reins and take care of whatever needs to be done on your own. Be aware that your Virginia child custody arrangements may have specific guidelines pertaining to both partner's respective responsibilities.
In extreme circumstances where you feel your ex-husband's apathy is truly harming your children, you should take the appropriate steps to have your Virginia child custody arrangements legally changed.
Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney
At this vulnerable time, it's critical that you have exceptional legal representation that not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and that of your family.
The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.
What Every Virginia Woman Should Know About Divorceis full of thoughtful steps and practical tips that will help you during your separation, divorce, or child custody case including:
-- 20 guidelines for "separation under the same roof"
-- 13 critical factors used to determine spousal support
-- 3 types of property classification recognized by Virginia courts
-- 10 factors your judge must consider in a contested custody case
-- a formula to determine your percentage share of his retirement benefits
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What Every Virginia Woman Should Know About Divorce is full of thoughtful steps and practical tips that will help you during your separation, divorce, or child custody case including:
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