Child custody disputes are among some of the most emotionally charged issues faced during the divorce process and, as such, mistakes are often easily made. Do not let your feelings get the best of you and risk your chances of achieving the results you are seeking. Not only can a mistake derail your ability to obtain custody, but it can also affect your children.
Too much is on the line to make poor decisions, so take a moment to familiarize yourself with some of the most common errors made and how you can avoid them. Of course, one of the best things you can do at this time is to hire an experienced attorney, so do not neglect this vital step!
Do Not Make These Mistakes!
Perhaps not every mistake can be avoided, but there are others that are absolutely within your control to prevent.
Here is a handful of some of the most commonly made mistakes that you should avoid during your custody case:
- Forgetting to pay child support: If you were temporarily ordered to pay child support, you need to obey the order even if you disagree with it. If you are experiencing financial difficulties, file a motion with the court as soon as you can instead of simply not paying child support. You want to prove that you are responsible and not trying to shirk your duties as a parent.
- Taking the kids on a vacation without obtaining the consent of your spouse: If you want to take your children away on a vacation, you will need to ask your spouse instead of disrespecting the court order. Otherwise, you can potentially be accused of kidnapping, which can severely limit your custody rights.
- Letting your needs take priority of your children’s needs: Your children did not ask to be put in this situation and are basically innocent bystanders who can get caught in the crossfire. Instead of focusing on your needs, focus on what you can do to make this situation easier on them. Help them cope buy taking them to counseling or spending time with them talking about why this is happening. Help them understand that although your relationship with their other parent is over, you will both still always be their parents and love them.
- Missing out on a chance to spend time with your children: If you are scheduled to spend time with your kids, do not flake out on them to do something else. You need to prove to the court that you want to spend time with your children and that you value your time with them. Skipping out on time you could have spent with them does not make it look like you want to see them and, in fact, you could be perceived as neglectful.
- Not being a good parent: Every parent needs to use some common sense and exercise good parenting skills. Choose your babysitters wisely, do not use corporeal punishment, and be fully engaged in your children’s lives.
Speak to One of Our Attorneys Today!
At Alternative Divorce Solutions, our attorneys are committed to helping clients navigate this incredibly sensitive and delicate legal matter. Our team is knowledgeable in custody rights, parenting plans, and post-judgment modifications.
Contact our office today at 949-368-2121 to schedule a free case review.