One of the most difficult parts of divorce or separation is no longer being able to live under the same roof as your children. This explains why child custody is usually one of the most contentious issues during the divorce process. Your conduct during custody proceedings can have a great impact on the case.
Most custody decisions are usually made in the best interest of the children. This means that you need to put your best foot forward and demonstrate that you have everything it takes to provide your child with the support and care they need.
Here are costly mistakes that you need to avoid before, during and after your child custody case.
Disregarding court decrees
This may seem straightforward. Unfortunately, it is not unusual for parents to disregard the court and the judge. For instance, a court may direct you to stop discussing your child custody case on social media, undergo a custody evaluation or take parenting classes. If the court orders you to do any of these, it is in your best interest that you cooperate lest you are held in contempt. This mistake also extends to disregarding custody orders or visitation arrangements. If the court grants visitation rights to the non-custodial parent, and you deny them, you risk losing custody of your child.
Putting your interests ahead of the child’s
One of the most important things you need to remember before, during and after child custody proceedings is to always act in the best interest of your children. Of course, your ex might be the last person you want to interact with after the divorce or separation. However, involving them in decisions that affect your children is paramount. If relocating to a different state means that your children will lose contact with the other parent and make it hard for them to adjust, you may opt to review your decisions. In fact, making the unilateral decision to relocate to another state without informing your ex could even be reason enough to lose custody of your children.
Family courts take child custody seriously. If you are caught up in a custody battle, it is important that you avoid costly pitfalls that can hurt your case.