If you are starting the divorce process and have children with the other parent, your goal may be to have as much time with your kids as possible. However, if you’re worried about being seen as a responsible parent, you might think that the judge won’t rule in your favor.
If you and your spouse can’t work out a custody arrangement on your own, then it’s important for you to know what to say and do if you go to court. The right actions could help you get custody. Here are three important tips.
1. Be prepared for court
Before you go to court, you have to be prepared. If there are reasons you don’t want the other parent to have custody, have those reasons ready. Have evidence to support any claim you make. Photos, videos, texts and other documents can all help a judge understand your situation.
2. Be on time
Being punctual is a major help in any kind of legal case, but it shows how serious you are about your child’s life in a child custody case. Punctuality is a necessity; be there early and ready to speak with the judge.
3. Keep your cool
Finally, keep calm. Things don’t always go as planned, and the other parent could say something disparaging about you in court. Even if you want to interrupt them or correct them, stay quiet. Being respectful and never talking over another person is a sign of a balanced, respectful person. That’s something a judge will consider carefully when determining the custody rights of any parent.
With these three tips, you’ll be a little closer to winning your case. Your attorney can help you prepare for the custody hearing, so you know what to expect.
