Divorces are stressful, particularly when it comes time to determine custody arrangements. You want to make sure that you have adequate time with your children and that their best interests are represented in whatever arrangements are made. To help you navigate this process, we've assembled a list of mistakes to avoid that come directly from child custody lawyers who work with cases like yours on a daily basis.
Ask a Child Custody Lawyer: 7 Mistakes to Avoid During a Case
1. Not Having an Experienced Custody Lawyer
Lawyers tend to specialize in certain areas of practice, and you will want to make sure you find a lawyer who has experience and a proven track record in producing positive outcomes during custody cases. You will absolutely want to spend time looking for the best custody lawyers for women in Columbus. OH to represent you throughout this process.
An experienced lawyer will help you avoid any legal pitfalls that you may not be aware of. Entering into this process without someone by your side can leave you vulnerable to being taken advantage of or agreeing to things that are not in the best interest of your children or yourself. Given the fact that the custody of your children may be at stake, it is worth seeking out good legal representation.
2. Bad Communication
Emotions run high during child custody cases, and it is very common for these feelings to spill over into your interactions with your ex. This can harm your case in the long run, and negatively impact your children as well. Try to limit conversations to issues directly related to your children and their needs, if at all possible.
Avoid negative outbursts during your conversations, and try to stick to just the facts. If you can show that you are capable of respectfully co-parenting with your ex, it will benefit your custody chances in the long run.
3. Unwillingness to Compromise
4. Involving Children in Arguments
5. Posting on Social Media
Remember that you have no expectation of privacy when posting online, and you never know who could be sharing your content with the opposing parties. Often the safest decision you can make is to deactivate these accounts altogether during your custody proceedings.
6. Poor Record Keeping
Keep a written record of any events that occur, with as much detail as you can remember. Be sure to save any written communications via text, email, or social media that could demonstrate ongoing issues with your ex. Keeping good records can be key to showing the court any issues that may be occurring within your co-parenting arrangement.
7. Ignoring the Judge's Orders
Throughout this entire process, the main priority is looking out for the best interests of your children. Maintaining a pleasant relationship with your ex, being willing to compromise in ways that benefit your children, and working constantly to successfully co-parent are all essential to achieving a positive outcome in your child custody case.