Can Parallel Parenting Work in a High-Conflict Divorce in Wisconsin?

 Posted on July 16, 2025 in Child Custody

Divorce is challenging under any circumstances. However, when parents struggle to get along, it becomes even harder for everyone involved, especially the children. High-conflict divorces often create tension and uncertainty that can linger. For some families, parallel parenting offers a way to reduce conflict while nurturing parent/child relationships. If you have questions about your legal options for co-parenting during a difficult divorce, a Pewaukee, WI divorce attorney can help.

What Is a Parallel Parenting Style?

Parallel parenting is different from traditional co-parenting. Instead of working closely together, parents limit direct contact as much as possible. Each parent manages the children’s care during their own time and makes everyday decisions separately. Communication is kept short and focused, often through written messages, email, or specialized apps instead of in-person talks or phone calls. This approach is suggested when parents argue frequently and struggle to communicate without hostility.

What Are the Advantages of Parallel Parenting After a High-Conflict Divorce in Wisconsin?

Parallel parenting can be very effective for families dealing with ongoing conflict. Some benefits include:

• Protecting children from conflict: Children do not have to witness disputes or feel torn between parents.

• Clear boundaries and rules: Each parent knows when they are responsible and what is expected. This reduces confusion and helps avoid arguments over daily decisions.

• Support from Wisconsin law: Under Wis. Stat. § 767.41, courts assess what is best for the child and can order arrangements that reduce contact between high-conflict parents if needed.

• Stability for children: Even if parents cannot get along, children can still count on routines and quality time with both parents. Judges may adjust custody orders for significant changes under Wis. Stat. § 767.451, ensuring the children’s needs remain the priority.

Sole custody is not typically a solution for high-conflict couples. Wisconsin courts discourage sole custody, especially due to conflict. Judges will not automatically give one parent sole legal custody just because the other parent is difficult, as stated in Wis. Stat. § 767.41(2)(c).

How Can You Resolve Parenting Disputes When They Arise After a Wisconsin Divorce?

Even with a strong parallel parenting plan, disagreements can still arise. When that happens, you should stick to the communication methods you agreed upon, such as emails or parenting apps. This keeps conversations focused and helps to avoid arguments. In some cases, a parenting coordinator, like a professional who helps resolve smaller disputes, can step in to help without needing to go back to court each time.

Wisconsin courts also encourage mediation as a first step when parents cannot agree. Mediation allows parents to talk through problems with the help of a neutral third party, rather than going straight into a legal battle. However, if serious issues keep surfacing, or if one parent is not following the parenting plan, the court can step in to enforce or change the plan.

Contact a Waukesha County, WI High-Conflict Divorce Attorney

Parallel parenting is not the right fit for every family, but it can be an effective way to manage high-conflict situations while keeping both parents involved with their children. If you have questions about how to navigate parenting responsibilities during and after divorce, a Pewaukee, WI divorce lawyer at Bucher, Wolff & Sonderhouse, LLP can help. Together, we can explore your options and work toward a solution that puts the well-being of your child first and protects your parental rights. Call 262-232-6699 today to schedule a free consultation.