Child Custody Lawyer
Parting ways from your spouse or partner can be difficult, even in the most amicable and ideal of circumstances. When children are involved in a separation, it becomes even more challenging mentally, emotionally, and logistically. Most parents want to be a part of their child’s life at least to some degree. Some parents may fight for full custody of their children, but there is an option of shared custody in which both parents have an equal share in caring for their children. But as a qualified child custody lawyer explains, depending on the factors of the separation and what is in the best interest of the child, the outcome can vary.
If you are a parent who wants to obtain custody of your child, there are things that you can do now and during the court hearing to increase the odds of getting the outcome you want. One of the most important things to remember is that the judge’s primary focus is what is going to be best for the child. So as the parent, it is your job to show that you are responsible, ready to provide a safe and comfortable home, and are a stable parent that they can rely on into the future.
It’s not possible to change any of your past behavior or actions, but what you can do right now is position yourself so that you are prepared to be an engaged and committed parent. Ideally, it’ll be better that you have done this long before the child custody case has proceeded, so that you can show a good pattern of behavior. It is normal to still be dealing with feelings of betrayal and anger after divorcing or separating from the other parent. Do your best to work through these emotions, and even consider getting help from a therapist if needed, so that you can walk into your child custody hearing feeling more balanced. Setting aside your personal feelings for the good of your child’s future is the best approach for obtaining custody.
If you have custodial time with your children now, spend as much time with them as you can. If you miss visits, it can come off that you are not interested in putting your children as the priority. Avoid leaving your children with family or in a daycare unless you absolutely have to, such as needing to go to work in order to pay for your and their necessities of living. Pick up your children on time from school, custody sessions, appointments, and after school activities, etc. And if you have questions or need help, consider meeting with a family law firm, similar to O’Cathain, LLC.
It’s worth emphasizing again that you have to set aside the disagreements that you have between you and the other parent, and focus solely on the best interest of your child. Do not get caught up in arguing with the other parent, especially during the hearing. If your former partner wants to argue or become aggressive in front of the judge, then that will reflect poorly on their ability to parent in a loving way. Remember that the hearing is about your child and them being taken care of, and that is what the judge will be looking for.