Child Custody
Tips for Navigating Child Custody: Strategies for Parents to Ensure the Best Outcome for their Children
In a custody case, courts often look to start with a shared custody arrangement and then hear arguments as to why the court should deviate from that even split. To combat this, it is important to be able to refute any allegations that may be made by a parent. For example, if one parent suggests that the other parent works too much to be able to provide a healthy environment for the children, the other parent should be ready to demonstrate that their work schedule does indeed allow for quality time with the children.
Remember, the roles may be different now. If you went from having the children in your home full time to significantly less, find ways to show the court that you desire deeply to keep your relationship with your children strong. This may require that you take what you are already doing to a new level. Make daily phone calls, take advantage of every opportunity to see the children, go to extracurricular activities, volunteer to coach, and compromise when it makes sense and does not take away your rights. Always keep in mind that it is not one parent trying to win against the other, you are trying to show the court that you are willing to put the interest of the children first.
It is also important to pay the child support awarded by the court, even temporary child support. Your attorney can work hard to adjust this amount, but in the meantime, it is essential to show the court that the children are still financially supported. You do not want to give your spouse the argument that you financially neglecting the children. It is also crucial to complete all the court assigned classes and requirements. If the court says to do it, it is important to do it in time. You do not want one parent to be able to point out a situation where you ignored a court order.
Additionally, it is essential to show up to all events, even if the other parent is there too; it’s okay to be duplicative. You do not want one parent to be able to show that they are the primary caregiver. What does this look like? Go to parent-teacher conferences, go to dentist appointments, go to doctor appointments, go to orthodontist appointments, go to sports practices. Did you know that doctors’ notes often indicate what parent attends the appointment with the child? These records can later be subpoenaed to show that only one parent is attending to the child’s medical needs.
Insist that you are put on all emails, mailings, and contact lists for the children. This means you may need to contact your children’s school district, schools, teachers, youth groups, sports teams, coaches, etc., and let them know that you need to be receiving all the communication that the other parent is receiving. Be able to demonstrate that you have made every effort to stay involved. If you do not know about an event, you cannot show up and be supportive at that event. Do not depend on the other parent to keep you in the loop.
At Gem State Attorneys, our experienced and knowledgeable family law attorneys are here to provide you with effective representation to ensure your child’s best interests are taken into account. We are committed to providing you with the highest quality of service. Give us a call at (208) 900-9529 or contact us today.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. The content of this blog is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. Readers should not act upon this information without seeking professional legal counsel. The opinions expressed at or through this blog are the opinions of the individual author and may not reflect the opinions of the blog or any individual attorney.