Be prepared for child custody proceedings
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Be prepared for child custody proceedings

by | Sep 12, 2019 | Child Custody |

If you’re one of many Kentucky parents who are filing for divorce this year, you’re also likely among those focused on their children’s best interests. Divorce definitely has a significant impact on children’s lives. However, data shows that most children are resilient and are able to move on in life without serious negative repercussions.

By building a strong support network from the start, you can provide encouragement and tools your kids need to successfully adapt to a new lifestyle. Certain aspects of divorce may be stressful for you as well, such as child custody proceedings. The better prepared you are ahead of time, the greater your chances of achieving a fair and agreeable outcome.

Be prepared to answer questions

The judge is probably going to ask you a lot of questions. Such questions might include wanting to know where you plan to reside once the court finalizes your divorce. The court may also want to know where your kids will sleep when they are at your house, especially if you have requested to be a full-time custodial parent. Other questions might pertain to income, your children’s education or additional personal matters.

Third party testimony

You can expect that if your ex says you’re an unfit parent or if you are saying the same about him or her, the court will want you to present character witnesses. This might include teachers who know your children, a babysitter you’ve hired in the past or anyone who has known you long enough to attest to the fact that you are a capable and fit parent.

Avoid courtroom stress

If your relationship with your ex is rather contentious, you may have to work hard to avoid emotional outbursts during custody proceedings. The court must be convinced that your children are better off with you than with their other parent. What you do and say can influence the judge’s decision.

Personal appearance matters in court

If you want the court to grant you custody of your kids, you must show that you are a fit parent. You’ll want to appear neat, clean and well-dressed in business casual attire. Wearing torn, dirty or sloppy looking clothing gives the impression that you don’t really care or aren’t taking proceedings seriously.

Who can help?

Divorce is definitely not easy, even in the best of circumstances. In addition to providing strong support to your children, it’s helpful if you also build alliances with others who are well-versed in family law or have gone through similar experiences. By taking one step at a time and overcoming any obstacle that arises, you can accomplish your short-term goals and lay the groundwork for a successful, post-divorce future.

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