How To Handle A Custody Fight The Right Way
Posted on: 22 January 2020
Fighting over child custody is an unfortunately all too common problem. There is a right way to deal with the situation, and you should follow these four tips to make sure you'll be handling things the right way.
Retain Counsel Immediately
Most of the big mistakes people make in a custody battle occur because there wasn't a lawyer present to explain whether a certain choice was a good one. Some parties become belligerent, and others shy away from the situation. That can lead to a very unbalanced outcome, especially if the matter never goes to court.
Contact a child custody attorney and tell them what your situation is. Stick to the facts and avoid getting emotional about the situation. They'll help you figure out what you need to do next.
Do Not Fight in Front of the Kid
Other than the emotional satisfaction of having it out with the other parents, there's no upside in having a fight at all. Regardless of how you choose to approach that part of the equation, don't have a fight or even a tame conversation about custody when your child is around. It's emotionally unhealthy behavior, and there is the risk that a full-blown fight will be used as evidence of parental unfitness.
If the other parent simply refuses to deal with things in a civil manner, shut down conflicts as soon as possible. Inform them that they need to hire a child custody attorney of their own and that they should address the practical and legal aspects of the situation with yours.
Take Lots of Notes
Even if everything seems to be humming along fine, document every interaction involving you, the other parent, and your child. Take written notes rather than relying on saving messages on your phone. Document when the kid was picked up for visits, when calls were made, and any concerns you might have had about either. Include dates and times because these can help your child custody attorney to develop an argument based on patterns of behavior.
Respond to All Legal Correspondence
When you receive paperwork from the court or the other party in the case, open it as soon as possible and read it. If you're having trouble understanding the implications, take it up with your lawyer. Share all such correspondence with counsel, and don't sign anything until you've had a conversation with them. Make copies of all the documents you receive, too.
For more information, contact a child custody attorney or visit sites like http://www.molnarlaw.com.
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