Five Tips for Winning Child Custody Cases

 Posted on May 22, 2015 in Child Custody

Child custody proceedings are often complex and usually emotional for those involved. There are several ways you can ensure that, as you progress through your child custody case in Illinois, you are working with the process and not against it. Here are five tips to help you maintain your composure and be the responsible parent your children need while negotiating a child custody agreement.

1. Be Respectful

Exhibit the same respect toward your ex-partners and your children that you would expect your children to show toward you and others. When you ask your children to report to you about your ex-partner's activities; you are asking them to disrespect a parent which results in conflict and confusion for the child. The same is true when parents allow their children to witness or overhear heated arguments.

The courts like to see that both parents are involved in the children's lives, putting their emotional well-being before their own differences. Explain to your children, in an age appropriate way, that as their parents, you are both seeking to achieve the best living arrangement for everyone. Assure them they will be fine and cared for but do not burden them with the details of contentious court proceedings.

Parents who use their children to spy on the other parent's home life or question them repeatedly for information to use against that parent are taking a huge risk. Such tactics may serve as a basis for the court to deny or change custody.

2. Be Prepared for Your Case

If both parents have reached a custody agreement the court will enter a consent order and consider the matter resolves. In the absence of an agreement, the court will decide a temporary custody arrangement for the children.

Judges are charged with incredible responsibility when deciding child custody cases. They respond more positively toward a parent that is actively seeking to improve their children's life by resolving common issues. Parents will want to show that they have a solid plan in place to deal with common challenges such as :

• A work schedule that accommodates the custody agreement and the needs of the child(ren);
• Reliable transportation plans, including emergency alternatives; and
• Confirmed daycare information and arrangements.

3. Maintain Accurate Documentation

Maintain a daily journal to document the progress of the custody agreement. Anytime the other parent violates the custody agreement by making disparaging remarks about the other parent, exhibiting inappropriate conduct, or showing disregard for the agreed schedule, document it in detail in the journal.

Make note of the positive strides made in parenting and co-parenting as well. Documentation of events over a period of time will carry more weight with the court than generalized verbal statements and accusations. Helping your lawyer by providing exact documentation helps you protect your parental rights.

4. Give the Court Your Full Cooperation and Respect

There are no exceptions made and no excuses accepted for non-compliance with judicial orders.

Disobeying a court order will cast you in a negative light and may quickly turn the judge against you resulting in:

• Fines;
• Possible jail time;
• Other sanctions; or
• Delay the progress of your custody claim.

5. Consult with a Family Lawyer

A lawyer with specialized experience in child custody cases, working on your behalf, could directly impact the outcome of your child custody case. It is important to consult with a dedicated DuPage County family law attorney to review all of your options. Please contact the law offices of Stock, Carlson, Flynn and McGrath, LLC at 630-665-2500 to schedule a consultation. We look forward to working toward a successful resolution of your case with you.