You and your spouse saw no alternative but to go your separate ways. The divorce is underway and you’re nervous about your child custody hearing.
One way to alleviate stress before a court date is to be as prepared as possible. The following steps should help you to navigate your custody hearing.
Creating a good impression
Typically, the court will want both parents to play an active role in the child’s life. If you and your co-parent can’t agree on certain custody issues, then the court will consider the best interests of the child. This is the standard by which the family court makes all of its custody rulings.
While you can’t control the outcome of the case, you can make a good impression on the court. The idea behind this is to show that you are a suitable parent who can take on the requested role post-divorce.
Everything you do and say during the hearing will count. For example, it will benefit you to be polite and on time. While you shouldn’t be judged based on what you are wearing, it will do no harm to turn up to the hearing as smart as possible.
Being ready with paperwork
The court may also have asked you to bring in certain documents. For example, they may want to see any previous custody arrangements that have been implemented. They may want to see evidence that either parent has followed their child support obligations. Having everything ready will help the process go much more smoothly.
Child custody cases can be daunting but ultimately the court has the best interests of the child in mind. You don’t have to face the hearing alone. Having legal guidance behind you will also take a load off of your mind.