Six Things to Avoid: What Should You Not Do During a Custody Battle?

Divorce itself is a difficult time, but when children are involved, then it can be much more frustrating. The negotiations for custody need to be made by the court, and child support payments need to be determined. During this process, you should set aside your emotions and keep your children’s best interests in mind.

Keeping a civil relationship with your ex can be beneficial for you. Make sure an experienced lawyer can represent and defend you. There are some things you must do on your behalf to strengthen your case. Here are the six things you should avoid during the custody battle.

1) Avoid dishonesty and deceit

Being dishonest will not get you anywhere. Moreover, withholding important facts can aggravate your case. Fabricating stories and telling lies about your past mistakes, financial problems, your ex, are all things you should avoid in court. To be honest, don’t leave out crucial information when telling about your story and difficulties. The court will get to the bottom of your lies, and you will lose all the credibility and may even lose custody of children.

2) Avoid moving in with a new partner

You may be tempted to date again or move in with a new partner after the divorce is filed. But you should avoid doing this during the process of divorce and sometimes after it, especially exposing your children to a new partner. This could confuse them. The court will blame you for putting your children at risk.

3) Avoid arguments, physical offense, or talking negatively about your ex or children

Even if you feel you are wrong, you should never have arguments with your ex, especially in front of your children. Also, avoid arguing with children or badmouthing your ex in front of children. This could upset your children, and they may disclose this when interviewed, influencing the final decision of the judge.

Similarly, the physical offense can lead you to lose custody of children and may even lead to a restraining order against you. So be mature and control your attitude. Willingness to cooperate and communicate with your ex regarding your children will be beneficial for your case.

4) Avoid being irresponsible

Avoid disappearing on your ex and children during the custody process. Try to be punctual and committed to the case and your children. Prepare and bring documentation of all the records that can be put forth as evidence. This will demonstrate your responsibility and desire to be helpful during the process of custody. The process is difficult, so it is important to get help from a qualified child custody lawyer in Houston.

5) Avoid using children to win custody

The whole divorce and child custody process is already traumatic and overwhelming for the children; avoid adding more to it. Try to understand them and keep their best interest in your mind. Don’t use them for your benefit.

6) Avoid neglecting your responsibilities or ignoring court orders

Be responsible when it comes to orders from the court. Take this as an opportunity to show your willingness to take care of your children. If you are ordered to make child support payments, then don’t miss paying them. Also, don’t neglect your responsibilities to your child that you have agreed upon.

Conclusion

If you follow the advice of your lawyer and avoid the above 6 things during the custody process, then you are sure to succeed. Regardless of the ruling of the court, you should keep your emotions at bay and be a responsible and civil parent.