Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid During Child Custody Proceedings

Not only is divorce time-consuming, but it can also be a quite distressful experience. It often involves a lot of negotiations to determine how to split the resources you previously shared. One of the most stressful aspects of the process is custody arrangements.

If there is a lack of trust, one or both partners will feel that they will be shortchanged by the court. It can be an emotional time for those seeking a fair settlement. Before approaching child custody lawyers, here are some mistakes you need to avoid during and after the process.

Losing Your Cool During Proceedings

During the divorce, many claims are made back and forth by both parties. You can get caught up in the messy details of your separation if you don’t watch out. The court does not need to hear who was wrong or right.

The court is only concerned with the best interest of the child. Letting anger take control can make you come across as unstable. Do not be tempted to threaten your ex, or use coercion to get ahead.

The judge may assess the mental health of both parents. Try to keep your emotions under control throughout the proceedings. Let a family law attorney take care of the legalities of the case.

Not Having a Working Relationship with Co-Parent

A separation involves parents, and the couple must consider the interests of their children. A hostile relationship with the other parent will only cost you a lot in terms of time and resources. It can make the whole process stressful and harder to resolve.

Be careful how you treat your co-parent during separation or divorce. It is a time when you can end up regretting making angry calls, threatening texts, or tell-it-all posts on social media. If your relationship is already hostile, your family law attorney can help you resolve your differences amicably. Divorcing couples going through child custody should realize a more level-headed approach is best for everyone.

Not Showing Interests and Disregarding Record Keeping

As a responsible parent, the court expects that you show a keen interest in your child’s life. You will need to demonstrate that you are a healthy parent of sound mind, who spends time with the children. That means taking them to the dentist, attending school, and important life events, as well as showing affection.

You may want to keep a record of all the appointments, notes, and communications involving your children. Interactions and transactions should be in a format that can be presented in court as evidence. Keeping written records can go a long way in improving your prospects for your child custody case.

Not Considering the Impact of a New Relationship

Of course, after divorce or separation, you are free to start a new chapter in your love life. But you may want to consult a lawyer, especially if it happens during the case. A relationship may mean that you have to move out of town or make life changes that will affect you and your child.

It may also not be in the best interest to place children in your home with your current partner. That is particularly true if your kids express misgivings about the person living with you.

Not Getting Legal Assistance and Ignoring Temporary Orders

Getting a qualified and experienced family law attorney is advisable during child custody proceedings. A family law attorney can help you put things into perspective. You will be in a better position to make sound and unemotional choices. Without an attorney, you may be tempted to ignore temporary orders. Your lack of experience may fail you as you try to navigate the often complex and time-consuming process.

In Conclusion

Child custody proceedings could prove to be stressful. Avoid losing your cool and making decisions out of anger or for revenge. Go for the best divorce lawyer services in Houston, TX to stay clear of pitfalls and get the best outcome for your case.