My ex keeps threatening to limit my time with them if I don't pay extra for school stuff. We have a court ordered agreement but she pulls this manipulation tactic constantly. My lawyer says to document everything and not give in to threats but it's hard when you just want to see your kids more. Anyone dealt with this? How do you not let it drive you crazy?
That's rough man. Don't let her pull you into that game because it only hurts the kids in the end. Sounds like you need to talk to your lawyer about what you can and can't be asked to pay.
Been there with the extra school costs demands. The court order exists for a reason, so stick to what's agreed on. If she wants more money for stuff beyond that, that's a separate conversation, not a threat about your time with them.
I'm sorry you're dealing with this. Kids shouldn't be caught in the middle of money disputes. How much extra is she asking for? There might be a middle ground that doesn't involve her holding visitation hostage.
This is exactly why I had to get the custody agreement spelled out crystal clear. No wiggle room. If she's threatening access, that's a legal issue, not something to negotiate on your own. Stay calm, stay documented, stay legal.
Man, that's a tough spot. Document everything she's asking for and get it in writing. You might need to loop your lawyer in if she's using custody as leverage. That's not co-parenting, that's coercion.
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Document everything she says about limiting time with the kids over money. That's leverage against the court order and your lawyer needs to see the pattern. Stay calm and keep it civil in writing so you've got proof.