3 Things to Avoid Doing If You Are Fighting for the Custody of Your Children
If you are going through a divorce, or have been divorced, you know that custody can be a difficult battle to fight. There are many people who feel that they should see their children more or be more of a part of their lives but cannot because they weren't granted custody over the children. Here are some things that will hurt your chances of getting custody of your children.
1. Abandoning the House and Children
In the early stages of divorce many couples choose to separate. If the fighting has become intolerable and you are unhappy you might be tempted to leave. Do not do so without a formal agreement. If you were to leave the house and let your children and spouse stay, it will look as though you don't believe that the day-to-day care of your children is your responsibility. You are sending a message that your spouse should be the primary care taker, and the court will look at it as though your spouse has been the one to stay constant in your children's lives.
With a formal separation agreement you can make sure that it doesn't look like you abandoned your children in their time of need.
2. Having an Affair or Dating
Another thing that can hurt your chances of getting custody of your children is if you were unfaithful in the marriage. If you had an affair, it looks as though you were unfaithful to both your spouse and your family. Judges generally favor the spouse that was committed to the marriage, even when it comes to custody.
In addition, you shouldn't start dating until after the divorce is final. Starting the dating process early on and while you are still technically married can harm you.
3. Having a Criminal Record
Lastly, you need to keep your record spotless if you are trying to get your children. The courts look at the character of the person to see if they are fit to have children. If you have something like a DUI, possession of drugs, reckless driving, or other charges on your record, it could severely impact your chances of getting custody. Not only that, it could also mean that the time you do have with your children is now supervised. This is why it is so important to be careful with the law.
Keep the above things to avoid in mind and talk to an attorney like those at Anderson Legal Group, P.C. for more tips on getting custody.