A custody battle can be stressful and expensive, but is often a necessary process in divorce. While there is no guarantee that you will get full custody of your children, there are ways that you can raise your chances. However, you may not be sure what to do, especially since the situation can be volatile and emotional. You can follow these tips to help increase your chances of getting custody of your kids.
Be Cooperative
If you show that you are not willing to cooperate with the other parent, it can reduce your chances of getting custody of your kids. Some parents even lose the battle because they demonstrate an uncooperative attitude from the start. It would be best if you show a willingness to cooperate in front of the court to avoid such issues. Additionally, you should avoid adding too much drama into the mix because the court proceedings are based on logic, not emotion. Plus, it could put a real strain on your children, so you should avoid it.
Understand Perception
You can say as much as you want in court, but in the end, your actions could speak louder you’re your words. Therefore, you need to show the court what you want and not just say it. It would help if you showed them that you are a competent, loving, and involved parent. You should also demonstrate proper courtroom etiquette, dress appropriately, and arrive on time.
Prepare Documentation
If you feel like your children would not be safe with the other parent, you need to prepare documentation to prove it. For instance, if you know the other parent has been physically abusive in the past, it would be best if you document any interactions the parent had with you and your children. However, you need to be aware that the other parents may feel the need to do the same with you. You should be careful when you are documenting any crucial information and try to find any other forms of evidence to support your point.
Maintain a Good Reputation
While you are going through the case, you should try to keep a good reputation. For instance, make sure you are not late when you pick up or visit your kids. Avoid rescheduling your time with them. If you are tardy or reschedule often, it will show the court that you are inconsistent as a parent. You should also not abuse drugs or alcohol, especially if you are with your children. It can easily be used against you in court.
Get Support
If you get custody of your kids, then you should get support from the other parent. Just because they do not have custody of the kids does not mean they lose the responsibilities of providing for them. Many parents and children struggle because the amount of child support is not fair. It would help if you looked for a competent child support attorney to help you make sure that you are getting a fair amount of support. Remember, whether you live in Denver or Detroit, the costs of raising your children can get the better of your finances, so child support will go a long way to ensuring a good future for them.
A custody battle is not easy, but it’s what you need to see that your children get the best possible arrangement, in the long run. You can follow the tips above to raise your chances of getting custody of your children.
