Child custody cases are generally overwhelming. You shouldn’t let your emotional stress influence your actions during this period. Though widely known, your actions during this period directly affects your future relationship with the child and the possibility of being granted custody. You should observe the following do’s and don’ts if you want to win a pending child custody case. Remember to consult family lawyers in Ipswich for the best possible outcome.

1. Don’t: Withhold Visitation without a Valid Reason

The court evaluates various factors before giving its verdict on a child custody case. Unfortunately, most parents deny themselves child custody rights, knowingly or unknowingly, through some acts, such as withholding visitation from the other parent without a valid reason. The court essentially looks for attempts by one parent to cut off the other parent from seeing their child without a valid reason or a court order.

You can withhold visitation rights if the other parent poses a danger to the child, either through physical abuse or an unsanitary living environment. However, such reasons are limited to immediate and verifiable threats. Withholding visitation because of other issues, like missed child support payments, can make your situation more complicated. You should consult your family lawyer before violating the laid-down visitation schedule.

2. Do: Cooperate with the Court and Other Parent

You should cooperate with the court and the other parent, regardless of your negative feelings towards your former partner. Putting your feelings above your child’s interest is a mistake that can cost you child custody. The judge will see through your uncooperative attitude, especially if you fail to communicate clearly or do something intentionally to hurt your ex-spouse.

You should keep an open and constructive general relationship with the other parent. If you can’t control your emotions during this period, let your attorney handle the communication for you.

3. Don’t: Share your Custody Issues on Social Media Platforms

Social media platforms have over time become a place for users to vent their frustrations and life stressors. However, you shouldn’t take your child custody issues online. The court and the defendant’s attorney can access and use your social media posts against you. The judge may form a negative opinion from your posts. For instance, posting abusive or disparaging comments about the other parent negatively affects your case. 

4. Don’t: Ignore Important Evidence

The best way to win a child custody battle is ensuring that you have all the necessary evidence. Your child custody lawyer will explain to you the importance of documenting interactions with your child and the other parent during this period. Crucial evidence includes all messages or voice recordings of the calls with the other parent and incurred parenting expenses.

Endnote

Family law issues are often complicated owing to the emotional connection between the involved parties. While some mistakes are obvious, you should be wary of other things that can hurt your case. For instance, lying in your court documents directly negates your case. You should hire an attorney, cooperate with the courts, collect crucial evidence, and stay off social media.