A parent who begins a child custody case usually has a lot of questions. Here are some of the common child custody questions and their answers to help parents get started.
1. How do I begin a child custody case? Technically a case begins when you file for child custody at the courthouse. To do this, you simply fill out some papers and file them with the court. In some states you will need to have those papers served to the other parent and then they have a chance to respond. When you file your papers, you will receive a court date. Really, though, a custody case begins as soon as the parents know they will be separating or divorcing. When this happens, parents should start thinking about the custody arrangements they want and how they will make things work.
2. Do I need an attorney for my custody case? This completely depends on your situation. It’s usually a good idea to consult with an attorney and see what they say about your situation. It doesn’t hurt to find out how they will handle things. If it doesn’t sound like it will be too complicated, then you may not need an attorney. If you and the other parent can work together on a parenting plan or work things out, you can probably handle things on your own. If you and the other parent are involved in a complex custody battle, you probably want a lawyer to help you.
3. How do I win a child custody case? If you end up with a custody agreement that you like, you’ve won your child custody case. If both parents are happy with the arrangements, it is even better because they will be more likely to abide by the plan and it will last longer. You can win your case by working with the other parent to create an agreement or going to court and convincing the court to accept your plan.
4. How do I prepare for a custody case? If you are going to court for your case, you need to be prepared. You should create a parenting plan that you think is the best for the child and have reasons why the court should adopt that plan. Those reasons should all be focused on why your plan is in the best interest of the child. As part of your parenting plan, you should include a custody and visitation schedule, a holiday schedule, any parenting provisions, and other documents that you want included.