The Importance of Communicating with a New Stepparent

Regardless of the reasons for your divorce, it is sometimes difficult to adjust to the idea of your former spouse getting remarried. Watching a newly married couple establish a household and set up their new family unit can be difficult, especially when children are involved. Getting used to a new stepparent is hard for children, especially if the separating and divorce of their parents was a difficult process. Seeing their biological parents communicating with a new stepparent often shows children how they are supposed to behave towards the new addition to their family.

Preserves Parental Rights

The alienation of the affection of a child against a specific parent is a real problem during divorce. One parent will attempt to influence a child, encouraging them to reject their other parent. After a divorce, this can occur when one spouse gets remarried and their former spouse speaks against their parent’s new stepparent. Criticizing or otherwise communicating in a hostile manner can cause problems between former spouses. A newly married spouse may accuse their former spouse of parental alienation and seek to restrict their access to mutual children. Communicating effectively with a new stepparent helps to preserve your parental rights and the well-being of your children.

Protects Children

Children often find themselves in the middle of disputes between divorced parents. During this time period the conflicts between the parents overshadow the needs of their children. Communicating with a new stepparent in a positive and professional manner allows all parties to focus on the well-being of the children. Parents who communicate are able to identify potential problems with their children before things get out of hand, and they are able to work together to help children when needed. A family dynamic that encourages communication ultimately protects children from physical or mental harm while supporting their educational development.

Avoids Support Issues

Remarriage often has an impact on support and maintenance payments. A parent who has remarried and expanded their household may find themselves facing difficulty when it comes to making child support payments or paying alimony. Arguments with a new stepparent could exacerbate the situation and lead to issues with maintenance payments being missed. While the court system is designed to help parents recover payments, communication that helps to avoid an issue entirely is always preferable to a hearing.

Seeking Legal Advice

In some situations, communication is not enough to heal a breach caused after a remarriage occurs. A former spouse may find themselves in a compromising position legally or financial following their ex-spouse’s marriage. If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulty with support payments, visitation, or custody agreements, consulting an attorney is often the best way to resolve the situation. Sandra Bonfiglio, P.A. is a compassionate attorney with extensive family law experience. Conveniently located in the Boca Raton and Fort Lauderdale area, she is able to assist you with preserving your legal rights. Contact her today at 954-945-7591 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your unique situation.