By: Danielle Murphy, Paralegal
If you are currently going through a Divorce or Custody modification for the first time, you may be feeling some anxiety surrounding meeting your ex to exchange the children. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to ease the process for both you and your child.
- Pick the Right Location
When deciding the details of possession, it is important to pick a good location for exchange. If you and your ex don’t live in the same area, try to pick a location that is equidistant from your homes that way neither party has to drive father than the other. If you live in the same area, pick a location that is a familiar neutral ground, such as your church, the child’s school, a police or fire station, etc. - Be On Time
Life can be hectic at the best of times but adding a possession schedule for your child into the mix can make it even more difficult. Even so, the importance of being on time to your exchange can not be overstated. If you agreed to meet your ex at 6:00pm—get there at 5:55; and that applies whether you are dropping off or picking up. Exchanges can be tense, especially if you are struggling to be cordial with your ex and not being on time can cause unnecessary tension between the two of you, and with your child, so the smoother and quicker you can make the transition, the better. - Bring A Friend if You Need To
You may be thinking “these tips are great, but they don’t really apply to me because of the history with my ex” and you would be right. Some people have complicated pasts with their ex and may not feel comfortable going to an exchange. Bring a friend! Or, have your attorneys negotiate a drop off at a third-party location with witnesses. You can even negotiate to have someone else pick up or drop off your child if you feel unsafe.
Bottom line, do your best to be cordial and prompt with your ex to make sure your child has the best experience possible, and if you need support, don’t be afraid to ask! Your legal team is here for you.
