Divorce or separation can easily affect your emotional and mental well-being. And things get even more complicated when children are involved.
As a parent, you want what's best for your kids, and you may feel that you are the best parent to provide the children with a safe and loving environment. However, the court does not see things as straightforward as you do, so you must strive to prove you are a worthy custodial parent. Discover helpful tips to increase your chances of winning a child custody case.
Learn the Law
Before you embark on your custody case, take some time to familiarize yourself with the applicable family laws in your state. Learn what factors the court considers to establish the fittest custodial parent. Such factors include the child's best interest, parenting history and abilities, the mental and physical health of both parents, and the stability of the home environment.
Understanding the law and court processes helps you better prepare for the custody case, which can give you an edge in court.
Put Your Kids' Best Interest First
A child custody battle is not a time to fight for your rights. Instead, focus on the best interest of your children and present evidence that demonstrates you are the better option for their well-being.
While it may be tempting to use the case to defeat your ex, put your emotions aside and prioritize the best interests of your children. For example, you may ask your children which parent they would rather live with and put their opinion into consideration. Also, consider other factors such as proximity to school and your ability to provide for the children.
Most importantly, cooperate with your co-parent and be open to negotiations. Then, when you work together, you can quickly develop a child-centered custody arrangement that will make the process easier for everyone, including your kids.
Work on Your Living Situation
The court considers if you can offer your children stability and safety when determining the best placement. Therefore, ensure you have a suitable home environment before filing for custody.
If you don't live in a family home, at least move closer to the kids to show that you are serious about providing a stable home. Also, consider living in an apartment complex or neighborhood that is close to the schools that the children already attend.
Your habits may also determine your fate. For instance, if you are a smoker, the court may consider your lifestyle unsuitable for kids. So avoid anything that could be seen as detrimental to your case, such as drug use.
Gather Supporting Evidence
The more evidence you have to substantiate your claims, the higher your chances of winning the custody case. For example, you may gather evidence to show you are an intentional parent. These include communicating with your ex regarding the children, your financial contribution to their upbringing, and the time you spend with them.
You may also gather evidence against your ex, such as criminal records or drug use. The goal is to show any bad behavior that could influence the well-being of your children. It is also essential to bring witnesses who can testify in court to support your claims.
Talk to an Attorney
Child custody cases can be complex, especially if you don't know much about family law. An attorney comes in handy to guide you through the process and help you prepare for court. In addition, the lawyer will assess your case and advise you on the best legal options.
Moreover, the lawyer can explain to you what the court is looking for so that you can present the right evidence. With this, you can increase your chances of winning the case.
You can trust us at Tri-Cities Law Group to help you with your child custody case. We have experienced attorneys who will guide you through the process and ensure you are ready for court. Contact us for a consultation.