A child custody case is never easy on any of the participants. But, if you keep these dos and don’ts in mind, the outcome will likely be in your favor. Four necessary positive actions to take are:
- Cooperate with the other parent
In a custody case, the judge is looking out for the child’s best interest and will be expecting the same level of commitment from both parents. Any lack of cooperation on either parent will not reflect well on that parent’s request for custody. Therefore, despite how you feel about your ex, remember the focus is on the child.
Before entering into a custody case, research your state’s family law and retain a family law attorney, such as Fischer & Van Thiel LLP. If you seek sole custody because you feel the child is not safe with the other parent, keep meticulous documentation and share it with your attorney for use in court.
- Exercise your parental rights
Whatever level of parental rights you have at this time, exercise them to the fullest extent. Arrive promptly for pick up and ensure you spend quality time with the child. You are not trying to win a popularity contest, so it should not be all fun and games. Enforce rules, such as homework and bedtime, to make the child’s life as normal as possible under the circumstances.
- Request an in-home custody evaluation
To strengthen your case for child custody, request an in-home custody evaluation. This evaluation is a proactive way to demonstrate your commitment to the child’s best interest. A disinterested party’s report in your favor will be a positive influence on the judge’s decision.
- Impress the judge
One of the best tools for ensuring success in your custody case is to impress the judge. Dress well, arrive promptly, and act like the capable and loving parent you are. Unprofessional attire and behavior will overshadow any good documentation and evaluation you present.
It is equally as important not to do certain things during a custody case. Avoid these four actions if at all possible:
- Negatively involve the child in the case
Do not talk negatively about the other parent to, or in front of, the child. Keep those conversations to when you are out with friends or the child is not around. As we said in the “dos” section, both parents must demonstrate cooperation for the child’s sake.
Similarly, do not share details of the custody case with the child. They need to know that both parents love them despite their separation. If the child asks a pointed question, respond with a factual, emotion-free answer and move on.
And finally, do not fabricate potentially harmful stories about the other parent. When the information is proven to be a inaccurate, it will only hurt your case.
- Arrive late for or rescheduling pickups or visits
Not being punctual, or rescheduling a visit, signals to a child that they are not important to you and something more engaging has gotten your attention. Be sure to call the child and explain if you must be late or cancel for a significant reason. It does not take much effort but will go a long way in making the child feel valued.
- Abuse alcohol or drugs
Do not overindulge in alcohol or use illegal drugs at all, particularly when you are with the child. Substance abuse sets a bad example and could even demonstrate a risky environment for the child. In the end, it may well end up costing you the custody case.
- Refuse to complete the court’s requests
Although you may not understand why it is essential, do whatever the judge asks of you. It will allow you to show the court that you are a dedicated parent and are willing to do whatever it takes to win the child’s custody.
These are just a few suggestions to help you be successful in your child custody case. Do not forget the child’s best interests should be everyone’s goal.
