Child Custody And How To Win It
Child custody and guardianship are legal terms which are sometimes used to describe the legal and practical relationship between a parent and the parent’s child, such as the right of the parent to make decisions for the child, and the parent’s duty to care for the child.
More often than not, a legal process involving Child custody demands far more than commitment. How you present yourself in court can make or break your case. The following information will put you in an advantage during a Child custody case and get you a favorable result.
Show that you are willing to work with your Ex
A child custody battle is often lost because they demonstrate unwillingness to collaborate with the other parent. Remember that while you may not like your ex, he or she is a part of your kids’ lives, and you need to show the court that you’re willing to work together.
Request for an in-home custody evaluation
In cases where you are concern that your ex will try to present a negative impression of your home life, an in-house custody evaluation can be extremely helpful.
Perception is everything
Do everything you can to present yourself to the court as a competent, involved, loving parent. This includes arriving on time, dressing for court, and demonstrating proper courtroom etiquette in front of the judge because one of the hardest things to grasp in a custody battle is the fact that it doesn’t really matter if what is being said about you is true or not; what matters is whether the court believes they’re true.
Prepare Documentation
For situations where you honestly believe your children would be, for some reason, unsafe with the other parent, you should carefully document your interactions with your ex, as well as his or her interactions with your children. Though you should also be aware that the other parent may feel the same way about you and may be preparing similar documentation for the courts. It is also helpful for you to read up on the child custody laws in your state so that you will know in advance what to expect
Work with an experienced child custody lawyer
An experienced child custody lawyer is better equipped and experienced to advocate for you and what you are fighting for. Even if you don’t think you can afford a lawyer, set up a free consultation to discuss your options. You can look for free law clinics in your area for assistance.
Always be prompt
During visits or pick-ups, showing up late can be used to create a negative impression of your commitment. Little things like this matters. Also, don’t make a habit of rescheduling time with your kids repeatedly. Make sure you’re there when you say you will be, so that it can’t be used and document a pattern to the court that reflects negatively on you.
Follow what the court is asking of you
See this as an opportunity to show the Court how far you are willing to go for your kids. This is your time to show the courts how committed you are. If they require you to take parenting classes or seek counseling, do so immediately.
Your children should not be involved in the Court process
Do not be tempted to share details of the case to your children as it is important to not place the burden of adult issues on their shoulders. In addition, avoid talking negatively about your ex in front of your children. Try to keep your opinions and feelings about your ex to yourself. Vent your frustration to a trusted friend, instead.
Never invent negative stories in an attempt to win custody
A good family law attorney will always suggest that you never invent any story, negative or otherwise so that you can win a custody battle. The truth of the matter is that any lies you present will eventually come back to haunt you and will most likely be used against you in court. Never come up with allegations of abuse or exaggerate your ex’s shortcomings in order to win custody. This simply will not help you win your case.
