How To Get The Best Custody Arrangment
Once you decide to get divorced, one of the most important decisions you have to make is how you intend to arrange custody. These decisions have to be made with your spouse and your respective attorneys. If you believe getting the custody arrangements you want will be an uphill climb, you will have to be diligent in your efforts to get an arrangement that you believe is in the best interest of the children. The following are some things you can do that can help you achieve your desired results.
Work with Your Former Spouse
No matter your relationship status, you and your former spouse are going to have to remain in contact as co-parents until your children grow into adulthood. For this reason, it is best to make all decisions in an amicable fashion with your former spouse. There is no need to bicker with each other about minute details. You both must work together to show the court that you are both able to make rational decisions that are in the best interest of your children. If your spouse is not willing to act amicably, you should still remain calm and be willing to work together. The judge may notice your willingness, which will reflect well on you.
Prove Your Points with Legitimate Documentation
When you go to court to handle child custody arrangements, it is incumbent on you to have all the necessary documentation you need if you have specific issues you need to address. For example, if you believe your former spouse will be a danger to your children in any way, you need to prove that with actionable evidence in court. This could include a police report for past incidents, abusive emails or texts, or anything else that will prove your stance.
Do What the Court Asks
If you are ordered to take specific action by the court, you should do so without incident. For example, if the court orders you to attend therapy sessions, make sure to do it, even if you do not believe it to be necessary. Taking all requests seriously shows that you are willing to do whatever it takes to ensure your custody arrangements are ideal for the children's best interests.
Always Be Truthful
Honesty is paramount when it comes to dealing with any legal matter taken up in court. You should always answer questions truthfully without exaggeration. You should not try to highlight the worst qualities of your former spouse with inflammatory language. Tell the truth about your concerns, but do so in a factual way. If you appear to be exaggerating your concerns to the judge, they may not take you seriously.
For more information, contact a child custody attorney like Kenneth J. Molnar.