Parental Conflict: When You Just Can't Work it Out

 Posted on May 25, 2016 in Child Custody

Whether you are in the stages of drafting a plan for parenting time (child visitation), making arrangements for allocation of parental responsibilities (child custody), or you find yourself in the beginning stages of divorce, parental conflict is inevitable as you navigate separation.

While a number of marriages end mutually with little, if any, drama, it is not uncommon for those separating to experience a wide range of emotions and feelings of unresolved resentment during the split. This can lead to excess tension that impacts the children during the divorce and ultimately can leave marks on the entire family long after the separation is complete.

Keeping the Peace

DuPage County offers a number of resources and services for families undergoing these kinds of transitions, including something they call the PEACE program. This program is a conflict management group designed for high-conflict parents, comprised of two-hour group sessions that aim to help parents use coping and communication skills that keep children out of the parental conflict as much as possible. During sessions, parents are provided with tools such as role playing activities, peer coaching, and supervised practice to equip them with the techniques they need to protect their children.

Keeping Things Neutral

In addition to the PEACE program, DuPage County has established a site they call the Neutral Exchange Site to provide parent waiting rooms for supervised parenting time (visitation) between parents and children. The site is overseen by trained mental health professionals and is designed to provide a safe, friendly, conflict-free environment for parents and children to interact. These neutral exchanges are arranged via court order during specific hours, so inquire about the arrangements when speaking with your attorney.

Parental conflict can be distressing. However, with the right support, you can work through your family's transition with reduced tension and peace of mind. A DuPage County family law attorney can help. We would be honored to assist you. Contact The Stogsdill Law Firm, P.C. at 630-462-9500.

Sources:

https://www.dupageco.org/Community_Services/Family_Center/1627/

https://www.dupageco.org/Community_Services/Family_Center/1618/