Keep in mind a difference of opinion is okay. Destructive conflict leads to ongoing hostility with children caught in the middle. Constructive conflict happens when we put aside our hurts and angers and reach solutions best for our family. Hiring a lawyer doesn't mean you have to fight it out in court. Lawyers help us understand legal implications of our decisions.
Lawyers explain there are no real winners in court.
Because of our disappointment we parents can get stuck on issues that have little or nothing to do with our children. The reality is we will be parents for many years to come and it is not realistic to go to court every time we have a disagreement about our children. Even when parents are generally in agreement, we can need help dealing with our anger and keeping it from getting in the way. Counselors are helpful in communication and along with lawyers can be an agent of reality. Lawyers also advise us about what to expect from a judge, what the potential outcome will be, and advocate for and represent our position in court.