Can I Keep My Ex’s New Partner Away From My Kids?
Today’s topic is a very common topic when it comes to divorces between couples who have children. The question I was asked is, “Can I keep my ex’s new partner away from my kids?” The short answer to this question is no.
I understand that after a divorce or a breakup it is normal for each parent to move on and establish a relationship with a new person. The new partner may be involved in picking up or dropping off the children during exchanges. That new partner may even come to you with questions or issues regarding the children. These situations do not have to become a problem. However, of course, boundaries do need to be set, and they need to be established at the beginning to avoid conflict.
For example, the new partner needs to know that he or she does not have a legal right to make any decisions regarding the children’s well-being. Decisions such as custody, visitation, or child support are things that need to be addressed and discussed between you and your ex-spouse. Therefore, the new partner does not need to get involved in discussions with you in regards to visitation, child custody, child support payments or anything else when it comes to your children as it is legally the right of you and your spouse to discuss between yourselves.
Above all, I think the most important thing to remember is to be civil. Although you don’t need to become friends with the new partner, it is best to aim at a civil relationship, as this will make everyone’s life, and most importantly, the children’s lives, more peaceful and more productive. You don’t want to have your children feeling stress and in between, in the middle of both of you fighting over the new spouse.
If you have questions regarding divorce, child custody, or other family law related concerns, please do not hesitate to set up a meeting with our experienced family law attorneys. Our office can be contacted at (702) 998-1188, info@ljlawlv.com, or by scheduling a consultation online.
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