In most cases, joint custody is for the best benefit of the child. Even if you and your ex-spouse are no longer in a relationship, both parents still have an important role in raising a healthy kid.
While this may be the case, it does not mean that co-parenting is not challenging. Particularly if your ex-spouse is a narcissist, the challenge increases exponentially. According to Healthline, if you are co-parenting with a narcissist, take advantage of court services and make sure to have a legal parenting plan in place.
The courts can help
Consider asking the courts to involve a “guardian ad litem” to help when co-parenting with a narcissist. This person is a neutral intermediary who helps look out for the best interests of your child. They will become familiar with your child and the situation at hand. A guardian ad litem can help make suggestions to the court about where the child should spend most of his or her time and potentially mediate conflicts.
A legal parenting plan
While creating a legal parenting plan is an extra expense, it is a must when parenting with a narcissist. This way, the lawyer will put down all aspects of your parenting plan in writing and the courts will back them up. In the event that your ex-spouse starts to try and manipulate the parenting plan, you will have assistance from the courts.
A guardian ad litem and a legal parenting plan can help prevent your narcissistic ex-spouse from manipulating the situation and give you the backup you need to parent successfully. Involving outside influences can help you raise healthy, well-adjusted children despite the challenges your ex-spouse presents.