As a divorcing parent of minor children, one of your key focuses will be on finding an acceptable timesharing schedule, formerly known as a custody schedule. Courts prefer to keep both parents involved in a child’s life, so, in most circumstances timesharing is the norm.
Regardless of how the timesharing schedule is structured, there will be days when the two of you need to meet to exchange the children. These exchanges can present the opportunity for problems to arise if tempers quickly flare when you meet; even more so if there is a history of abuse. Here are some ways you can reduce the chance of problems.
1. Bring someone with you
Most poorly-behaved exes are less likely to be problematic when you are not alone. That said, taking your new partner to child exchanges might not be ideal, as it could only serve to increase the tension. Someone your ex won’t feel threatened by, such as your best friend or your parent, could work.
2. Use a stand-in
One option you can use to avoid issues is to have a trusted person, such as a family member, take the place of one of you. This way, you don’t need to come face to face with your ex. Some Parenting Plans specifically account for who is allowed to transport the children, so be sure to think ahead as to whether you believe this option might serve you best.
3. Official safe spaces are also an option
If abuse or violence is a legitimate concern, you can ask the Court to order the use of a designated “safe space” for exchanges. Florida introduced these in 2024. They have good lighting and cameras, at least one of which timestamps footage to provide added security. They’re available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
It’s best if such measures aren’t necessary, but they sometimes are. Therefore, it’s important to learn more about your options when ending a marriage with the parent of your children.
