Child custody is almost always the most important issue when it comes to your divorce. Children are and should be our top priority. While the content of this post cannot guarantee any result, these practices can increase your odds of a favorable outcome.
For more information regarding your child custody case, call us at (573) 995-4077 We are open 7 days a week because we understand that your family law issues do not cease on the weekends.
1. Establish a Custody Plan Prior to Separation.
This first one may seem like a no-brainer, but people often delay the process of coming up with a temporary plan until lawyers are involved. This practice can not only be detrimental from a financial standpoint if your attorney is paid by the hour, but you also lose your ability to negotiate and reason with your soon-to-be ex in a non-adversarial setting.
The potential benefit of a predetermined custody plan such as “2 days at mom’s, 3 days at dad’s, and 2 days at mom’s” is tremendous. If you are able to negotiate a custody plan like this with your partner before you split, it will be much easier to continue with this plan or ask for more time with the child, rather than starting from scratch and expecting the court to grant you unlimited time with the child.
2. Refrain From Lashing Out at Your Spouse.
The court is bound by the factors under RSMo 452.375 when considering child custody, which focuses on the best interest of the child. One of the factors considered is the physical and mental health of each parent. If you take every opportunity to call your ex names or yell at them in front of the child, this will likely not help you get more time with the child.
Another tip is to know the factors the court will consider in deciding child custody, which is RSMo 452.375.
3. Focus on Day-To-Day Issues.
Divorce and separation are not only stressful for you but also for your child. If you have children that are in school, make it easy for them to stay in the same school by moving to a nearby neighborhood. Or, if you are the person that is staying the in the area while your spouse wants to move to a new state, use your geographic location to your advantage.
Moreover, if you are the parent that helps with homework and school events, make sure you communicate that to the court.
4. Make the Child Your First Priority.
This final tip is the most important. The safety and well-being of your child is the most important factor to consider. If you are able to negotiate a custody arrangement that benefits your child the most, you have already won.
The post "How To Get Divorced Without Losing Custody of Your Children" appeared first on Loraine Law Center, LLC.