Custody: Holidays can reignite custody battles

Holidays can reignite custody battles. December is particularly fraught with such struggles. This puts pressure and expectations on children and parents alike. Whether parents are celebrating a faith holiday or a secular one, child participation in family events can become a flash point for divorced parents.

My suggestion is to stick to the agreed upon plan. If for any reason this becomes impossible or impracticable, BE FLEXIBLE.

It is not too late to file a new Custody Stipulation , which is an amendment to your existing Custody Order. Talking through potential issues and agreeing to a Stipulation in advance is the best way to assure your children have as seamless a holiday as possible, one that focuses on family connections rather than dysfunction.

You can give the gift of a peaceful holiday season by working things out with your ex in advance and, if necessary, filing a Stipulation with the Court. I can help with this – it need not be a long or cumbersome process.

Here’s wishing you and your children a calm handoff and a peaceful New Year!