Child Custody: What Parents Can Do Now to Prepare

Posted on November 11, 2024
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Preparing for child custody arrangements can feel challenging, but taking proactive steps now can help create a smoother process. Understanding what to expect and organizing essential documentation ahead of time are key factors in building a solid case. Whether you’re going through a divorce or need to establish custody agreements, there are actions parents can take to support their interests while keeping their child’s best interests at the forefront. Being well-prepared empowers parents to make informed decisions during custody discussions.

If you’re seeking legal guidance to help you prepare for a child custody case in Georgia, reaching out to a qualified attorney can provide clarity and support. The Marietta child custody lawyers at Tori White Legal Group may be able to assist you in understanding your options and going through the process with confidence. Contact us today at (770) 744-1529 to schedule a consultation.

Be Truthful 

Know what you can handle. If you have other responsibilities, such as multiple jobs or other children, it may affect your ability to be a full-time primary physical custodian.

Taking a clear plan of action will improve the possibility that your call for custody will be taken seriously. If you do choose to press for sole legal or primary physical custody, be sure you’ve thought through how you will handle this responsibility and determine whether it’s realistically manageable to do everything on your own. 

Think Ahead

You are expected to be prepared for parenting time if it is awarded. 

Gather truthful and intelligent responses to potential questions that may be asked by a judge, such as living accommodations, the child’s education, and financial preparedness.

If you are going to pursue sole legal or primary physical custody, you need to present compelling evidence as to why this arrangement is in your children’s best interests.

Be Committed to Your Child’s Life

While your child is not in your physical custody, call and check in regularly. Introduce yourself to the administration of your child’s school. Monitor your child’s progress, and ensure your child knows that you are there to help and support.

Your presence is important at your children’s social, educational, religious, and other important events as confirmation of a continuing relationship with them. This attendance is good evidence of maintaining a meaningful relationship with your children.

Child Support

Make regular child support payments while the children are not in your custody and care. You do not have to have a Court Order mandating child support. You are the best person to know the financial needs of your children, so choose an appropriate amount based on the children’s needs and your ability to pay. Keep a record of all child support payments, including payments made directly to children’s doctors, schools, extracurricular activities, and childcare providers. 

If you are currently under a Court Order to provide child support or reimburse for specific expenses and cannot afford to make your payments, consult an attorney. You may need to request a modification of child support if your financial situation has changed. 

Keep a Record of Visitations

Keep accurate records of all parenting time you spend with your children to support your case. 

You can use a calendar or a child custody app to keep track of your visitation. Make sure the app includes a time and date stamp as these can be considered reliable pieces of evidence in court. This information can also be used when proposing a parenting plan to the Court since it is an accurate depiction of what has been transpiring. 

Keep a Respectful Relationship with Co-Parent

Always show respect for your child’s other parent. The way you treat your child’s other parent will affect your child, along with how a judge may divide parenting time. 

Always encourage your child to maintain a relationship with the other parent. 

Consider Mediation 

Consider mediation or arbitration before undergoing a court hearing. 

Mediation involves using a neutral third party to help parents reach an agreement on their issues. They typically assist the parents, with or without attorneys, in drafting the necessary agreements to settle your custody and parenting time issues. 

If you do not have an active case in Superior Court, consider seeking out a private mediator to resolve your custody and parenting time issues before bringing an action in the court system.

What Can Be Used Against You in a Custody Battle

In a custody battle, various aspects of a parent’s lifestyle, behavior, and actions can impact the court’s decision regarding custody arrangements. Courts prioritize the child’s best interests, so anything that might suggest a parent cannot provide a stable, safe, and nurturing environment may be used as evidence against them. Here are some key factors that can work against a parent in custody cases:

  • Substance Abuse: If a parent has a history of drug or alcohol abuse, it can raise concerns about their ability to provide a safe environment for the child. Courts may view substance abuse as a risk to the child’s well-being and may limit custody rights until the parent shows a commitment to rehabilitation.
  • Domestic Violence or Criminal History: Past incidents of domestic violence, even if they did not directly involve the child, can significantly impact custody decisions. Courts typically take any history of violent behavior or criminal activity seriously, as it may indicate potential harm to the child.
  • Unstable Living Situation: A parent’s living situation can affect custody outcomes. Frequent moves, unstable housing, or an unsafe home environment can be seen as unsuitable for raising a child. Courts look for stable, consistent living arrangements that support the child’s growth and development.
  • Interference with the Other Parent’s Relationship: Courts favor arrangements that allow the child to maintain a strong relationship with both parents. Actions such as badmouthing the other parent, limiting communication, or not cooperating with visitation orders can work against a parent in a custody battle.
  • Neglect or Lack of Involvement: If a parent has shown minimal interest or involvement in the child’s life, it can be used as evidence that they may not be committed to providing the necessary support and care. Demonstrating an active, nurturing role in the child’s life is often essential in custody cases.
  • Poor Communication Skills: Custody cases often require co-parenting and open communication. If one parent is unwilling or unable to communicate effectively, it can raise concerns about future cooperation. Courts look favorably on parents who can engage respectfully and collaborate for the child’s benefit.

Being mindful of these factors can help parents prepare for custody proceedings and take steps to show their dedication to their child’s best interests.

Factors That May Be Used Against a Parent in Custody Battles Description
Substance Abuse A history of drug or alcohol abuse can raise concerns about a parent’s ability to provide a safe environment for the child.
Domestic Violence or Criminal History Incidents of domestic violence or a criminal record, even if not involving the child directly, are serious red flags for the court.
Unstable Living Situation Frequent moves, lack of stable housing, or an unsafe home environment can indicate instability.
Interference with the Other Parent’s Relationship Actions such as badmouthing the other parent, limiting communication, or violating visitation orders are considered harmful to the child’s relationship with the other parent.
Neglect or Lack of Involvement Minimal interest or involvement in the child’s life can signal a lack of commitment.
Poor Communication Skills Inability to communicate effectively with the other parent can signal potential challenges in co-parenting.

Preparing for a child custody case involves careful planning and a strong commitment to demonstrating your readiness to provide a safe and nurturing environment. Gathering the necessary documents, being mindful of your behavior, and focusing on your child’s well-being, can help you present a solid case to the court. Every action you take now can reinforce your commitment to your child’s best interests and lay the groundwork for a positive outcome.

If you’re facing a child custody case in Georgia, reaching out to an experienced legal team can make a difference. The Marietta child custody lawyers at Tori White Legal Group can provide guidance and support through each step of the process, helping you make informed decisions that prioritize your family’s future. For personalized assistance, call (770) 744-1529 to schedule a consultation.

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