By Andrea Hardesty Goosmann Law Omaha – Omaha Divorce and Child Custody Lawyer
Divorce or separation is rarely simple, especially when children are involved. Co-parenting after a breakup can be emotionally charged and legally complex. In Nebraska divorce and child custody cases, our courts prioritize the “best interests of the child,” encouraging both parents to stay actively involved in their child’s life whenever possible. But what happens when communication between co-parents becomes strained or high-conflict?
At Goosmann Law Firm, we understand the unique challenges families face during custody disputes. That’s why we help parents not only understand Nebraska custody laws but also develop practical tools, like the BIFF method, when communicating with your co-parent to reduce parental conflict and focus on what matters most: your child’s well-being.
When communication turns toxic between co-parents, the court may be forced under Nebraska child custody laws to award only one parent legal and physical custody of the children. It is important that your communication with your co-parent is as professional as possible, as the court will likely see the communication at trial.
Child Custody in Nebraska: What Parents Need to Know
In Nebraska, custody decisions are guided by statutes designed to support cooperative parenting. Although there is no presumption for or against joint custody in Nebraska, courts typically encourage joint custody arrangements unless they have a clear reason why joint custody would not serve the child’s best interests. Every custody case must include a parenting plan that outlines key details, such as:
- Legal and physical custody arrangements.
- Parenting time schedules.
- Procedures for resolving disputes.
Under the Nebraska Parenting Act, additional requirements include:
- A mandatory parenting education class for both parents.
- Mediation to develop or revise a parenting plan.
- Clear communication standards that encourage respectful, child-focused dialogue.
Whether you’re just beginning the divorce process or modifying an existing agreement, these requirements ensure that custody is handled in a way that minimizes harm to the child.
Tools for Tense Times: Mastering Custody Conversations with BIFF
When emotions and conflicts between parents run high, communication can easily break down. That’s where communicating with the BIFF method, created by conflict resolution expert Bill Eddy, becomes a valuable tool for co-parents navigating difficult conversations. BIFF stands for:
- Brief – Keep it short.
- Informative – Stick to the facts.
- Friendly – Use a calm, respectful tone.
- Firm – Set boundaries without inviting more conflict.
This method is especially useful during and after a divorce, or when co-parenting in high-stress custody cases throughout Omaha or elsewhere in Nebraska.
Suppose your co-parent sends a hostile message about the drop-off schedule. A BIFF response might look like:
“Thanks for your message. I’ll be dropping Ava off at 6 p.m. as listed in the parenting plan. Let me know if you’d like to propose a change — we can address it at mediation.”
This type of response helps keep the conversation child-centered and defuses potential conflict, something Nebraska courts, parenting coordinators and mediators consistently encourage.
Nebraska family courts expect parents to demonstrate a capacity for cooperative, respectful communication. Using the BIFF method not only models this behavior but also provides a written record of constructive efforts. That documentation can support your case and show your commitment to your child’s best interests.
Whether you’re in the middle of a high-conflict divorce in Omaha or navigating ongoing co-parenting in another Nebraska community, BIFF communication helps reinforce your legal position while reducing emotional strain. By keeping communication Brief, Informative, Friendly and Firm, you can protect your child’s future — and your peace of mind.
Co-parenting after separation doesn’t have to be a battle. With the right legal guidance and communication strategies, it’s possible to move from conflict toward collaboration. At Goosmann Law Firm, our experienced family law attorneys work closely with parents across Nebraska to develop, negotiate and modify parenting plans that meet both legal standards and real-life needs. From our Omaha office and beyond, we provide compassionate, strategic support through every step of the custody process. When it comes to your children, it’s not about winning, it’s about building a better path forward.
Goosmann Law – Omaha Divorce Lawyer and Omaha Child Custody Attorney
If you have a Nebraska or Iowa divorce or child custody case, the family law lawyers at Goosmann Law are available to discuss the specific facts about your situation and can provide an initial case assessment during an initial consultation. You can schedule a consultation by contacting your local Goosmann Office at (855) 909-4442 or by filling out the contact form on our website.
About Goosmann Law
https://www.goosmannlaw.com/services/divorce-family-law
*Note: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice or relied upon in lieu of obtaining legal advice regarding the exact particulars of your individual situation in this very complex and