Divorce proceedings can be a difficult and emotional experience for all of those involved, particularly when it comes to child custody disputes. While you may know your commitment to providing a safe and supportive home for your child, it’s important that your legal and personal conduct displays that commitment as well. Every family’s situation is unique, but following these do’s and don’ts can help you to make the best impression during your child custody dispute.

Do:

• Follow the current child custody and support order, including taking advantage of your current visitation rights. Be punctual and dependable when exercising your own visitation rights.
• Show your willingness to avoid and work through co-parenting conflicts by maintaining civil and productive communication. Don’t speak negatively about your ex, particularly in front of your child.
• Learn more about family law and consult your lawyer so you know what to expect throughout the custody dispute process. Conduct yourself with proper courtroom etiquette.
• Carefully document your interactions with your ex, as well as your child’s, particularly if you believe that your child may not be safe with them.
• Improve and maintain your personal situation as much as possible. It’s important to be able to show that you can provide a safe and nurturing home for your child, as well as that you have stable employment to financially support your child. Consider requesting an in-home custody evaluation if you are concerned about the misrepresentation of your home life.

Don’t:

• Abusing drugs or alcohol can impact your ability to effectively care for your child, and can destabilize your own life.
• Don’t refuse any court requests. It’s important to show that you are committed to making the changes necessary to best provide for your child.
• Custody disputes can be difficult and confusing times for children. Shield your child from undue distress, and don’t involve them in the dispute or use them as a messenger between you and your ex.
• Do not involve a new romantic partner in the dispute process or in your child’s life until custody has been determined.
• Don’t allow your relationship with your ex to color the time you spend with your child.

While custody disputes will be challenging, following these tips can help make the process easier on everyone involved. In addition, seeking the advice of a lawyer who will devote their time to understanding the needs of you and your child, as well as the goals and expectations of your case, can help make the best possible case for custody of your child. If you are facing a custody dispute and require advice or assistance, contact Doyle Schafer McMahon today at 949 727 7077 to speak with a legal expert.