Custody battles are never easy. Even if you and your ex-spouse already know exactly what you want for your children, things can still become complicated. You can't expect to show up at the courthouse without preparing and have things go swimmingly. You need to pay attention to court orders and follow them, as well as the local laws, to the letter. This doesn't just make the proceedings go faster, it makes things go smoother for everyone involved. Save yourself the emotional stress and be better prepared for battle by following these simple tips.
Find out what the laws are in your state.
It's no secret that laws differ from state to state. If you are battling for custody, you need to have a full understanding of local regulations. This makes it easier for you to argue and get what you are entitled to. You don't want to battle for no visitation rights, for example, if your ex-spouse is clearly entitled to see their children. Understand what parents are entitled to, what can take those rights away and use that information to better build your case.
Avoid violating court orders or doing something illegal.
Court orders are often in place to show parties what they can and cannot do. Making a clear violation can hurt your argument that you are a good parent that deserves to be in their child's life. For example, if you violate the court order not to sell off assets and try to sell your boat without the courts noticing, the court may see you as sneaky, a rule breaker and a bad influence. Legalities aside, these aren't behaviors anyone wants a child to see and the other party can use them as part of their argument against you.
Keep your cool, especially when going to court.
Keeping a cool head is the most important part of any legal battle. While custody battles can be drawn out and very stressful, courts tend to favor those who are well-composed. Even if you are under great duress, try your best to keep a clear head, stay focused and keep your emotions steady. This helps you make better arguments and helps you avoid making rash decisions under pressure.
If you are battling for custody, there may be a long road ahead of you. Start researching right away so that you can calmly and properly argue your case. This can make a huge difference in the outcome of your trial. To learn more, consult your custody attorney.
