Five Important Tips for Custody Cases

One. Put together a binder with numbered inserts.

Each numbered insert can represent a trial issue you want the judge to hear. For instance, Tab 3 could be that the other parent’s home is dirty with photos of the home as evidence. Each numbered tab should represent a singular issue with supporting evidence.

Two. Be reasonable.

Parents are expected to make mistakes. If you come down on the other parent for every mistake he or she makes, then you might come off as controlling and petty.

Three. Co-Parent.

Show the judge that you are the parent most likely to share information, facilitate visitation, compromise, and communicate regularly. I cannot stress how important this is, because the parent most likely to co-parent is the party most likely to be the primary custodian.

Four. Watch what you post and text.

Everything you write or post will probably end up in court. Do not send hateful emails, do not send disparaging text messages, and do not post about your case on Facebook. Communicate with the other parent professionally and always keep your communications about the children.

Five. Work on, or improve, your emotional intelligence.

Learn how to de-escalate conflict. Speak positively about the other parent when around the children. Use empathy and avoid apathy. Don’t include the children in the custody case or other adult issues – let them be kids. Take responsibility for your own short comings.