Blog

How to improve communication between parents during and after divorce

By Blake Austin Culver

Communication between parents can be challenging, particularly during and after the divorce process. What should a parent do when the other parent attempts to demean, disparage, criticize, blame, or otherwise badmouth him or her, including in writing on social media and electronic parenting platforms?  

In Illinois, a parenting plan should be prepared in connection with Section 602.10 of the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act (750 ILCS 5/602.10), and should be in the best interests of the parties’ child, including provisions and parameters for acceptable parental conduct, behavior, and communication. Once approved and entered by the court, the parenting plan becomes enforceable.                 

Badmouthing seems to emerge when a parent harbors unresolved anger, frustration, or bitterness about the other parent, usually related to the breakdown of the parents’ relationship. It can adversely impact a child’s relationship with both parents—the parent making the disparaging remarks and the parent receiving the disparaging remarks—which would be contrary to the parenting plan.

When badmouthing occurs, including in writing on electronic parenting platforms, the parent receiving the disparaging remarks can choose to correct untrue statements but should remember not to retaliate. A cycle of unhealthy and unproductive communication, escalating in nature, should be avoided, especially considering that writing on electronic parenting platforms is usually transcribed. Accordingly, the parent receiving the disparaging remarks should remain focused on the child’s best interests, including the child’s mental, physical, and emotional needs.  

Learning to improve communication between parents is paramount during and after the divorce process, which can include: (1) Establishing firm boundaries and parameters around communication, including through electronic means; (2) Focusing communication on child-related issues, including education, extracurricular activities, health, and religion, rather than on interpersonal conflicts; and (3) Determining how frequently and when to communicate.     

In the event the badmouthing becomes too constant and too pervasive, the parents may need, among other things, to attend mediation and/or to seek modification or enforcement of a parenting plan.

If you have any questions about a parenting plan or would like additional information about improving parental communication during and after divorce, contact the law firm of Gardi, Haught, Fischer & Bhosale Ltd. You may request a free case evaluation by requesting a free case evaluation button below.

Client Testimonials

Jimmy Su

We just had great experience with Tom Haught and his paralegal Courtney Kropf. The communication is clear and fast. All emails were replied within 30 minutes. We will definitely work with Tom Haught again.

Sagar Kanabar

Jeannette Gonzales

Was recommended to them from my company. They did an excellent job and always answered all my questions. Were always upfront with all things and made sure I understood everything that was explained to me.

Ardus

We used the law firm during the sale of our house. We dealt with Mr Haught and Courtney, who made the process very smooth. They were professional, yet very friendly to deal with.I would not hesitate to recommend them to my family and friends.

vanissa colaco

Our immigration experience with Ann Fischer has been amazing! She has been meticulous, organized and worked on our case in a timely manner. Ann and her team went above and beyond to address all of our concerns and provide a personalized support which made a significant difference during our stressful time.I highly recommend her services to anyone seeking legal representation for their immigration matters.

Mike and Keeley Aulert

We have used Tom Haught for two home purchases and one sale over the years and continue to be impressed by his professionalism, responsiveness, and thoroughness. Reasonable pricing too. Highly, highly recommended.

Waseem Chaudhry

Gardi, Haught is one of professional firm, I have been with G&H since last 8 years in all legal matters.RegardsWaseem Chaudhry

Khurram Ghani

Tom and his dedicated crew recently helped me close on a commercial property, and I must say they did an exceptional job! Throughout the entire process, they were incredibly responsive, attentive to detail, and a pleasure to work with. Their professionalism and expertise made the transaction smooth and efficient. I am thoroughly impressed with their performance and definitely plan to work with them again in the near future. I highly recommend Tom and his team for anyone in need of real estate services!

Ryan B

I'd like to thank Gardi, Haught, Fischer, & Bhosale LTD and the whole Team! For amazing service. They made my selling experience fast, easy and at my convenience. I'm very thankful for the whole team over there. Their service meant alot to me and will be using them in the future. 10/10 !

Roberta Murphy

We worked with Tom and Courtney mainly on our recent closing. While it did not go as planned (all the other side’s issues) they did a great job keeping us informed and in track. Highly recommend.

Request a Consultation

First Name*(Required)

Last Name(Required)

Email Address*(Required)

Phone Number *(Required)

How can we help you *(Required)

How did you hear about us? *(Required)

24688