Essential Tips for Divorced Couples with Joint Custody in Maryland

Joint custody after divorce can provide your kids’ many great benefits. The love and support of both parents makes a big difference in their lives. This doesn’t mean it’s without challenges. Knowing how to navigate common issues and resolutions for them can make a big difference in your post-divorce life. 

At RPM Law, our Maryland family law attorneys help you learn some tips and tricks for moving forward after divorce. This can help reduce conflict and prevent the need for post-decree actions. If you have issues that need resolved, we are here to help.  

Communicate Respectfully and Consistently

Communicating well with your ex-spouse is a big part of a successful joint custody arrangement. After your divorce, things could be strained. You got divorced for a reason, but that doesn’t mean you can’t both learn a new way of talking to one another. Being business-like and respectful can make a big difference. It helps to reduce conflict as well as focus the discussions on your children instead. 

Try these communication strategies:

• Use clear language when discussing decisions
• Keep discussion brief when possible
• Focus on the children
• Don’t bring up past marital issues
• Use written communications when possible
• Document any written communications
• Respond promptly to messages from the other parent

Co-parenting apps might help formalize some of your discussions and document them. It can also help reduce conflict when having difficult conversations. 

Keep Your Children Out of Your Arguments

Even if you disagree with another parent and need to argue, don’t do it in front of the kids. Maryland courts take the best interests of your kids seriously, and may not look fondly on involving the kids in your rights. 

Avoid:

• Speaking negatively about the other parent
• Asking children to relay messages
• Pressuring children to choose sides
• Sharing adult details about the divorce 
• Inappropriately discussing finances

Always try to encourage a good relationship between your children and the other parent when you can. 

Stay Organized with Schedules and Documentation

You need to stay organized in managing all of the kids’ schedules as well as your own. Also coordinating with the other parent can help. 

Consider keeping:

• A shared digital calendar
• Copies of school and medical records
• Notes about important conversations
• Documentation of schedule changes

Know When to Seek Professional Support

Even the most cooperative co-parents sometimes face challenges. Professional support can help. Options include:

• Co-parenting counseling
• Mediation
• Parenting coordination
• Legal guidance for modifying custody orders

Follow These Tips for a Smoother Joint Custody Experience in Maryland

These tips and ideas can definitely help. However, not every case remains on smooth ground after a divorce. If you need legal assistance with the other co-parent, we can help negotiate a potential resolution or file the appropriate motions in court. This can protect your rights, and the rights of your children. 

Our team at RPM Law are ready to help with your family law needs. Contact us today for a consultation.