Trying To Settle Child Custody In Court? Avoid Making These Mistakes
Are you starting the divorce process and know that custody is going to be a big issue? If so, you definitely don't want to make any mistakes along the way. Here are some mistakes you should avoid making if you're going into a custody.
Skipping Mediation
Many people assume that they are not going to win a custody battle unless it is settled in court. Unfortunately, that is the wrong way to go about getting custody. Know that once you decide to settle the matter in court, you lose all control over the outcome of the custody battle. The judge will make a decision which must be upheld by both parties.
If you try to win custody in mediation, it gives you room to negotiate with your spouse about who should have custody. You can help make your case appealing to them by playing to their emotions rather than the facts. If you can make a good case for what is best for your child, then you could end up winning custody.
Bringing Kids To Court
Think that you can win custody by getting your kids involved? This is one decision that can really backfire on you in several ways. If you are asking your kids to defend you in court to win custody, it means that they are going to have to take a side. If you lose the custody battle, the kids will be with the parent that they openly said they didn't want to be with. If you do win custody, it sets up a bad situation for visitation with the other parent. Do everything you can to keep your kids away from the custody battle.
Not Thinking Of Your Kids
Some people get so obsessed with retaining custody that they do not think about the impact if could have on their kids. Will your kids have to move to a different city, requiring them to change schools and be separated from friends? This can cause some major problems if living with your spouse is going to maintain their current living situation. Always think about what is best for the child and let that guide your decision rather than what you think is best for you.
Looking for more tips on how to handle a custody battle? Reach out to a local lawyer that specializes in child custody cases. You may be surprised at the expertise they bring to the situation.