Ways To Reduce Conflicts In Santa Clara County Child Custody Exchanges

For parents who are separated or going through a divorce in San Jose, child custody is often a contentious issue. Even if you agree on the terms, custody exchanges can be a stressful experience. While the goal is a smooth handoff, emotions often run high, increasing the likelihood of problems. Our child custody lawyer represents clients in these cases and explains common conflicts during exchanges and your options for addressing them.

Common Types of Conflicts In San Jose Custody Exchanges

Child custody arrangements made through the Santa Clara County Court vary depending on the circumstances involved. Custody proceedings generally look to protect the child’s best interests while encouraging both parents to continue to play an active role in their lives.

Unfortunately, hard feelings over their breakup and other types of disputes can make implementing these arrangements difficult, and one of the areas where problems are likely to arise is during custody exchanges. Some of the most common sources of conflict include:

• One parent consistently arrives late or fails to show up;
• Requesting last-minute changes to the agreed-upon schedule;
• Failing to communicate about important matters impacting the child;
• Failing to feed, bathe, or otherwise provide for the child before the exchange;
• Leaving the child’s books, electronics, school uniforms, or other items behind;
• Bringing new romantic partners to exchanges, increasing tensions;
• Engaging in verbal arguments in front of the child or other inappropriate behavior;
• Using the exchange as an opportunity to discuss unresolved relationship issues.

Ways to Resolve Child Custody Exchange Conflicts

When the above or other conflicts arise during San Jose child custody exchanges, they can create stress and anxiety, both for you and your child. If you are experiencing these types of difficulties, the following strategies can help:

• Stick to your court-ordered schedule, following pre-agreed-upon times and locations;
• Pick a neutral drop-off location rather than meeting at your home;
• Keep discussions during exchanges brief and limited to topics concerning the child;
• Refuse to involve your child in disputes and attempts by the other parent to use them as a messenger;
• If tensions are high, have a trusted friend or family member accompany you.

Under the California Family Code, the ability to cooperate with the other parent and put the child’s best interest first are primary factors the court considers when issuing child custody orders. If the other parent refuses to cooperate or behaves in a manner that puts you or your child at risk, it could impact their rights and may entitle you to request custody modifications.

Discuss Your Options With Our Experienced Santa Clara County Child Custody Lawyer

Child custody exchanges are often a source of conflict and can create additional stress for you and your child. If you are experiencing this type of problem, contact Argyris Mah, LLP to discuss your options. Our experienced San Jose child custody attorney takes the swift legal actions needed to protect you and your child. Reach out today and request a consultation.

Sources:

santaclara.courts.ca.gov/divisions/family-division

leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=3040.&lawCode=FAM