If you share a child with your former spouse, they will likely be in your life for years to come. This is because Texas law generally requires both parents to work together to do whatever is in the best interests of their children. However, it is possible for people to salvage positive relationships with individuals who they struggled to connect with while married.
The shackles are gone
Marriage is perhaps one of the strongest commitments that you can make to another person. However, over time, that commitment may feel more like a prison that there is no escape from. Instead of acting in a caring and loving manner toward your spouse, you may begin to feel resentful or angry toward them for ruining your life. By ending your marriage, you may find that you no longer have any strong negative feelings about your child’s other parent. This may make it possible to create a legitimate friendship.
You want what’s best for your child
It’s generally easier to be friends with someone when you have something in common. Sharing a child may be the strongest bond that two people could have in common. Over time, you’ll likely find that you put more energy into ensuring that your child is successful and less energy into pursuing old grievances.
It’s your life
Ultimately, there is no right or wrong decision when it comes to being friends with someone after the end of a marriage. If you feel comfortable maintaining friendly contact, you are free to do so assuming that they feel the same way.
Regardless of how well you get along with your former spouse, you may be entitled to several items in a divorce settlement. These items may include a share of marital property, spousal support payments and child support payments. The exact structure of a settlement will usually be determined by factors such as your age, income and whether you are your child’s primary caretaker.