If you are currently going through a child custody dispute, understanding how custody is decided can help you to prepare for the legal hurdles ahead. In Kentucky, while a judge may consider many factors, custody decisions are typically based on what is in the best interest of a child. The outcomes which see that a child is best cared for can trump parental expectations or preferences. It is true that many variable such as the job you hold may be out of your short term control, however, your behavior can greatly affect the outcome of a case. Below are four tips to help parents involved in a child custody dispute to strengthen their case.
- Get your documents in order: Legal issues regarding child custody and family law can be incredibly intricate and require a wide range of documentation. For example, you may need to present your child’s medical records going back several years and requesting them from your medical provider may take time. Tracking down any potentially important documents and creating a system of organization can help to prevent setbacks or delays down the line. Your attorney can help you to understand what may be needed in your case.
- Remain polite: While disagreements and arguments may be an inevitability during a legal battle, it is important to stay calm, collected, and courteous. Remember, when determining the best interest of a child, your behavior will reflect on your ability to provide a nurturing and stable environment. Avoid taking actions which may be interpreted as aggressive, hostile, or violent. For example, it is not a good idea to get into a screaming match with your former spouse in the courtroom.
- Continue to stay involved in your child’s life: A legal matter can be time-consuming and it is understandable that you may not have many free hours in the day. However, a divorce can be tremendously difficult for children, and investing additional time with your kids can help to ease the overall burden. Furthermore, your continued emotional support may be viewed favorably in the courtroom.
- Do not be afraid to ask questions: Child custody battles can be complicated, especially when they go to court. Your attorney will understand this fact and can help you to understand the legal process. Your attorney is your trusted legal counsel, however, in order to provide the best assistance, it is vital that everyone is on the same page. If you do not understand an aspect of your case or you are not sure what is required of you, ask your lawyer for clarification.
Legal Help for Child Custody Disputes
Following the steps listed above and thoroughly preparing for your legal battle can greatly improve your chances in court. However, success in any matter of family law can also be influenced by the attorney you choose to represent you. At our firm, we understand that every family has a unique story which is why we work closely with each client to craft a legal solution tailored to their specific goals. Whether you are considering options such as mediation, or if litigation has become the only route forward, our Louisville family law attorneys can aggressively protect your family’s interests.
Call (502) 812-1889 or contact us online and discover how we can help with your child custody or family law dispute.
