At The Bronzino Law Firm, we understand the value of this relationship and we are committed to representing your interests in child custody matters, including heated custody battle s.Conflict is exhausting and especially painful when it comes to divorce and child custody issues, but you needn’t face it all on your own. It is crucial that you understand your rights when navigating the difficulties of a high-conflict custody case. Let us familiarize you with the relevant laws regarding divorce, child custody, visitation rights, and other family law issues.
Many circumstances may contribute to a heated custody battle between parents, including:
When involved in a heated custody battle, it is essential to have an experienced attorney advocating for you. In some situations, it may be necessary to enlist the help of experts like psychologists to build the most compelling case for your desired custody arrangement. We have a strong network of professionals in place to maximize our chances of success in your custody dispute.
We understand the significant emotional toll that conflicts over custody and parenting time can take on you and your child. Family law attorney Peter J. Bronzino will take the time to listen to your concerns, understand your family’s unique situation and act as your advocate at every step.
Divorce is never easy, especially when there is enmity between the parties. Custody arrangements, child support, alimony, and the daily stressors of life can turn what was a poor relationship into an impossible one. A combative relationship rife with arguing and constant hostility is not only exhausting but creates an environment so toxic that even the most mundane of decisions becomes a battleground. This is especially true in the case of child custody decisions. Unfortunately, in a high-conflict relationship, the children’s new living arrangements and who decides major issues concerning the children’s lives can be the most difficult matters to resolve. It is often the job of the courts to intervene and approve adequate solutions for families embroiled in these situations.
In Family Court, custody decisions always focus on the children’s best interests, a series of qualifications used to determine how best to serve their needs. Aspects such as the relationship between each parent and the children, the parent’s willingness to cooperate with the co-parent, and the children’s adaptability to the custody plan are considered. The court also weighs the wishes of the children and parents, as well as the mental health and physical health of everyone involved. The primary caregiver must be open to dialogue and frequent contact with the co-parent to provide as stable an environment as possible.
When parents cannot make their custody agreement, the judge making the decision will be heavily influenced by the children’s best interests standard. Giving parents parallel custody can avoid frequent interaction between them. Parallel custody assigns exclusive custody for one period and the same amount of time for the other. This works well when parents live closely with one another and the children’s academic schedules are not altered. When necessary, a judge will grant full custody to one parent with scheduled visits to the other. This situation is typically found in cases where one parent is particularly volatile and argumentative. The court wants to prevent exposing the children to aggressive behaviors and arguments or parental alienation.
High-conflict custody cases can cause irreparable harm to children; increased anxiety, sleep disturbance, and behavioral issues, including tantrums and insecurity, are frequently seen. Changes in academic performance, regressive behavior, and violent outbursts are sometimes present as well. Even more disconcerting is the possibility of early substance abuse used as an escape tactic from the constant fighting.
It takes two people to argue. Avoiding engagement with the hostile parent can defuse the situation. It is possible to set boundaries without going no-contact. Encouraging communication by text or email rather than by phone can promote more straightforward communication and leave less opportunity for impulsivity and escalating arguments. Remaining neutral and avoiding negative talk to or about the other parent is helpful and sets an excellent example for the children. It is never easy to deflect hostility and negative comments, but engaging with them will reflect as poorly on you as on the aggressive parent.
At The Bronzino Law Firm, we treat our clients with the same respect and tenacity as we would a family member. Our experienced family lawyers will effectively navigate the process by collecting relevant evidence, gathering the needed documentation, interviewing witnesses, and providing testimony from expert witnesses if necessary.
Our firm has helped many people who were in your situation. Our family law attorneys are skilled negotiators and litigators. We have all the skills necessary to support your case and give you the best possible result. Our years of experience afford us the ability to represent you during this difficult time. We serve clients throughout the Ocean and Monmouth County region, including Ocean Township, Point Pleasant, Asbury Park, Eatontown, Sea Bright, Brick, Red Bank, and Wall.
If you are involved in, or anticipate becoming involved in, a legal fight over the custody of your child, we encourage you to contact us for a free initial consultation. You may reach our office in Brick, New Jersey, at (732) 812-3102.