A child custody case can be mentally straining for both the parents. In fact, many couples do not enter the custody litigation proceedings unless they have cited that having primary custody of the child will be in their best interest. During such a complicated time when things can go wrong and can create great trouble, you must take care of every minor detail and follow the law to ensure you win the case and the custody of your kid. During such instances, an essential thing to do is hire a good Austin child custody attorney who can provide you with the right guidance and support throughout the process.
The attorneys have experience and know about the law. Therefore, they can act in your best interest and ensure you have a better chance of winning the case.
Do’s of Child Custody
When you are willing to win the child custody case, you need to ensure that you demonstrate the willingness to work with your ex and that your children will benefit from you having their custody. Here are the things that would improve your chances of winning custody.
- Work with your Ex-Spouse
The divorcing parents going through the child case generally have a strained relationship. Therefore, during the custody battle, the parents must show the court genuine willingness to work with each other to benefit the children. The court will more likely favor cooperative parents over those who refuse to collaborate or speak with their spouses.
- Exercise your Parental Rights
It is vital that you exercise parental rights when visiting your kids. Make sure to spend as much time as possible with them so that you get to do regular things like homework with them along with some fun activities like going to water parks, movies, dinners, etc. Also, you need to demonstrate that you are willing to take on all the responsibilities of being a parent.
- Request in-Home Custody Valuation
If you are worried that your ex will negatively impression your home life, it will be beneficial to request a home custody evaluation. The visit will be extremely beneficial to custody battles, especially when things go well. It will be helpful to have a neutral party evaluate; your living situation and your parental skills to present in front of the court.
- Learn About Family Law
You must have a proper idea about the law to ensure you take the right measures for your kid. Consider knowing about the child custody laws to know better. For instance, most of the time, the parents have equal custody rights to the children when they separate. However, if one parent wants sole custody, they must demonstrate why joint custody will not benefit the kid.
- Keep Documentation
If you believe that your kid will be unsafe with the other partner, it will be better than you have proper documentation to prove it. For instance, if there is domestic violence, you must document the interactions with your ex and children. However, remember to be careful as the other partner might also feel the same and prepare the court’s documentation.
- Hire a Good Attorney
Even though hiring an attorney might be out of budget, it will be extremely beneficial. Having an experienced professional will ensure you have proper support for the case. The attorney will take the right steps and fight for your rights to improve your chances of winning.
Don’ts of Child Custody
Winning the child custody battle is not an easy job. Generally, the courts prefer joint custody. However, a parent can sabotage the chance of custody if they aren’t careful. Check out the list to know what should be avoided.
- Talking Negatively About the Ex
Although it might be hard for you, talking negatively about the ex can make things difficult, especially for kids. So make sure you keep your feelings and opinions to yourself. Even if your kid asks a difficult question, you must offer him a positive response. Besides, you have to be honest to ensure you avoid bashing the ex in the process.
- Arriving Late for Visits
Minor things like coming late for visits can put you in a negative light. Thus, it is essential that you always stay on time to pick up the kids or visit them. Besides, timely arrival shows the kids that they are a priority. When the court sees the child is happy with you and feels secure, it will improve your chances of winning the custody battle.
- Lying
The parents who are dishonest with the court by making unfounded allegations on the ex sabotages the chance of getting custody. Although you might think this will improve your chances, it actually can be harmful. When the accusations have some facts or some proof, then the credibility will improve the chance. But without any proof telling a lie is not advisable.
- Misusing Alcohol or Drugs
The court will not give you custody if you are an alcohol or drug addict. So you have to be extra careful to avoid misuse of such items, especially when you are with your kids. Besides providing more ammunition to your ex, it might end up hurting the kid in the process. Besides, someone else might document and use it against you. So you must not do anything that can put your kid at risk.
- Sharing Details with the Kids
Although you might be tempted to share the details of the case with the kid, you must avoid putting the burden on them. You must avoid talking to the kids about what’s happening and give other information associated with the case. Instead, you can answer their questions briefly and give regular updates.
- Violating Orders
An easy way to get on the bad side of the court is failing to follow the orders of the court. The parents must all their efforts to comply with the judge’s request, especially when they are law-abiding. Whether it’s about communication or visitation with the kids, you need to follow all the laws and instructions to ensure you have your chance of winning custody of your kid. The slightest mistake herein can cause great trouble.
Conclusion
The custody battle is a long and hectic process. Besides, it is not easy to gain custody of a kid. The parents need to stay prepared with all the essential documentation and take care of other means of improving the chance to win the battle. For instance, this includes hiding a good Austin child custody attorney. There are numerous law firms in Austin, Texas, you can consider getting professional assistance. But make sure you prefer only those who have a good reputation. Further, make sure they specialise in the area. Although the attorney will guide you about the entire process, you need to take extra measures to avoid doing anything harmful to your case.