On behalf of The Marks Law Firm, L.L.C posted in Child Custody on Tuesday, February 22, 2011
During a divorce, working out the details of a child custody arrangement can be one of the most difficult and emotional steps in the process. It is perfectly understandable that parents who are used to interacting with their children everyday will rebel at the thought of relinquishing parental control to their ex-spouse.
As difficult as the process may be, most parents can agree that they want the transition to be as smooth as possible for their children. When tempers and personal differences are allowed to dictate the terms of a custody agreement the process becomes more difficult for everyone involved. Some parents may want to consider using mediation services to develop an arrangement in a civil manner without having to bring the matter to court. Mediation can help parents avoid becoming trapped in an ugly and vindictive custody battle.
A very public example of just how bitter custody agreements can become is the current clash between actress Halle Berry and her husband Gabriel Aubry. While this blog is certainly not a gossip site, we mention their case because it provides a very vivid illustration of the kind of conflict mediation services can help parents avoid.
Since the couple parted ways in April, they have shared custody over their daughter Nahla. However, months later both parties have begun flinging accusations at one another in an effort to cast their ex-spouse as an unfit parent. Berry publically stated that Aubry traumatized their child and was verbally abusive, while Aubry claimed that Berry prevented him from seeing Nahla depending on her mood.
Although the couple began their divorce planning to be peaceful coparents, the stress of developing a functional custody arrangement caused their relationship to quickly deteriorate. Nahla is currently only 2-years-old. Even at a young age, imagine how distributive her parents’ constant fighting must be to her quality of life. How much worse would a similar situation be for an older child? Mediation is one option which can help parents avoid placing extra stress on their children throughout the process of their divorce.
Source: LA Times. “Halle Berry, Gabriel Aubry battle for custody of daughter Nahla.” 3 February 2011.