Child custody cases can get messy, especially if you do not come prepared with necessary documents and a child custody lawyer. Here are some things you should do to prepare for a child custody hearing.
Get a family lawyer - One of the most important steps that you should not skip before having a child custody hearing is hiring a competent family lawyer. A family lawyer specializing in child custody cases can walk you through the process before you go to court. A family lawyer can also help you understand the legal side of your case and assist you in navigating the court system. Additionally, your family lawyer will be able to provide you with advice on what to do and what not to do while you are fighting for custody.
Keep documentation of your child’s best interests - You should gather any legal documents that can prove that the child is better off living with you such as school records, medical records, and any communication that happened between you and the other parent to help support your case. A family lawyer will be able to help you decide which documents would be best to show your child is better off in your care. The judge will be looking for documents and conversations that support your claim that you have been the primary caregiver for your child.
Maintain a safe and stable home environment for your child - The court wants to know and see that your home is safe, stable, and free of anything that could be harmful to your child. It is common for you to be asked about a typical day for your child and how well you can support their physical and emotional needs.
Keep your relationship with the co-parent amicable - A common piece of advice that a family lawyer will give is to keep the relationship with your child’s co-parent amicable. No matter what they say to you, it is important to stay calm and respond in a diplomatic way.
Contact Lauren B. Abramson, Esq if you are looking to meet with a family lawyer. She can schedule an appointment with you to see if she will be a good fit for your child custody case.