Divorce is never an easy matter. For parents, it is a particularly challenging experience. The prospect of spending less time with your children is unfathomable and everyone is likely experiencing a whole spectrum of emotions, many of which may compel you to act impulsively. However, as difficult as this situation may be, it is crucial to maintain a level head and keep your feelings in check. Some of the biggest child custody mistakes parents make are driven by emotion, so continue reading to learn more about these missteps and why you should avoid them.
Common Preventable Child Custody Mistakes
Never forget that family courts believe the involvement of both parents serves the best interests of a child. The last thing you want to do in court is demonstrate an inability to cooperate and compromise with your co-parent, so try to exercise some restraint when it comes to your personal feelings regarding your spouse. Regardless of the problems that led to your marriage, you must both support one another’s relationship with the children.
Moreover, as important as it is to be on your best behavior in court, you should also maintain good behavior outside of court. Do not get involved in heated arguments with your spouse and never speak negatively about him or her in front of your children. Badmouthing your spouse to your children will not reflect well on you in court and a judge may think you are engaging in parental alienation.
Here are some other mistakes you should avoid in your child custody case:
- Skipping out on time with your children: Do not flake on scheduled visitation with your children. Prove to the court how much your time with them matters.
- Not putting your children first: Always put your children’s interests above your own. During the divorce process, it is easy to lose sight of what is important, especially since you will undoubtedly have a lot on your plate, but your children must always come first.
- Refusing to reasonably communicate with your spouse: No one expects you to become best friends with your soon-to-be former spouse, but you should keep the lines of communication open.
Hiring an experienced attorney can also ensure you avoid many of the most common mistakes divorcing parents make.
Discuss the Details of Your Case with a Knowledgeable Attorney
If you are involved in a child custody dispute, you should retain skilled legal counsel to guide you through this emotionally challenging experience. At Hope Law Firm, our family law team has the experience and skill necessary to ensure you receive the best possible results for your case.
Reach out to our law office today at (515) 305-2772 to set up an initial consultation with a member of our family law team.