This is a very sensitive subject... I had a very bad marriage and a resulting horrible divorce, but we did try to work with the children so that he had visitation on a regular basis. It's better the fact that he did not treat me well, because the courts were supervising and I had a quick resolution if I felt that something was incorrect, my husband of the past continue to watch our mutual children. Children often feel like they are put in the middle, and this should never be the case. In some situations it is a bad idea, and you usually know this going out if it's going to be that type of relationship. I had a protection order and he had to go through Counseling in order for us to be sure the children would be going to a safe home.