Four Ways to Help Your Chance of Winning Child Custody

Four Ways to Help Your Chance of Winning Child Custody

As a parent, facing the fact that you may spend less time with your child is the scariest part of any divorce. It is for your spouse, too. Due to this, child custody issues are typically the most heated in any divorce that involves children, with each side fighting to win their child custody hearing. To help you have the best chance at winning the majority of parenting time, follow the four tips below.

Remain Transparent

In any aspect of divorce, it is crucial that you remain open and honest with the courts, and this is of particular importance when going through child custody hearings. Full transparency with the courts will show the court that you are reliable and trustworthy, and that the best interests of your child are truly at the top of your mind. If you enjoy a glass of wine at the end of the day, remain honest about that fact. If not, your spouse may reveal photos that not only show you are dishonest, but may go even further, saying perhaps that you are an alcoholic, even if it is not true.

Cooperate with Your Spouse

It is understandable if you do not want to cooperate with your spouse as you go through a divorce. Unfortunately, you must, particularly during child custody issues. Try your best to remain flexible, do not make unreasonable demands, and do not become fussy about every aspect of your child custody arrangements. Behavior such as this is an indication to the courts that you are unobliging and perhaps even troublesome, and that will not encourage them to award you child custody.

Follow the Rules

A judge may issue temporary child custody and child support orders while you are going through the divorce but it is not yet finalized. These orders are intended to provide the children with some structure and to eliminate fighting between the couple in regards to when each parent can spend time with their children. It is crucial to follow these orders and, when a judge issues final orders on these terms, to continue following them. 

Failing to follow any court order will not endear you to the courts, and it may be more difficult to secure a judgment in your favor in the future, such as if you need to modify child custody or child support. Always comply with a child custody order, pay child support when you are ordered to, and only leave children with a nanny or family member during your visitation time when absolutely necessary, such as when you need to go to work.

Always Work with a Michigan Child Custody Lawyer

During child custody hearings, it is often difficult to keep your emotions in check. A Clinton Township child custody lawyer can help you through those emotions by explaining the facts of your case and showing you the best path to success. At Iafrate & Salassa, P.C., our experienced attorneys know the best ways to help ensure a positive outcome with your child custody hearings and can help you modify child custody and child support orders in the future, if necessary. If you are about to enter child custody hearings, call us today or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation with one of our knowledgeable attorneys.