Fighting for child custody is the toughest part in any divorce case. The unpredictability and the fear of the judgment can make it extremely stressful for those involved. Few parents really want to battle for custody in court and is usually settled out of court though a mediator. But when partners do not agree, child custody can turn vehement, time consuming, expensive and of course stressful. Whatever the case is, if divorced couples can follow certain guidelines before battling out child custody, things can be done easily.
Availability
This is the first factor considered before custody is given. Time that each parent is willing to spend with the child can determine who will get custody. The judge will also take into consideration how much time each parent spent with the child prior to divorce.
Background Check
The background of the family is another factor that determines who will get the child. For example, if one partner has more close contacts with relatives, grandparents, then that spouse may have an advantage.
Income
It is an obvious conclusion that the parent who is earning more will be able to provide and support the child better. Whether a higher earning parent may get the child or not, he or she may have to pay for the child’s development.
Character Study
Irrespective of the fact that the spouses divorced, the court will still expect the child to grow up in an environment that imparts values and character. So, a parent with prior drug abuse, or alcohol addiction, or without a job for long time may lose the battle for custody.
Opinion of the Child
If the child is older than 12 or 13 years, then the court will ask the opinion of the child to determine child custody. Although, the children may not get to decide, they can however, influence the verdict.
Legal Help
Whether you want to amicably settle child custody with your divorced spouse, or take it to court, it is important to engage a child support attorney to help you with your child custody case. Even though the battle can be stressful, a child support lawyer can make the fight relatively easier and helps to ensure your interest. As a lawyer, he can guide you with questions on payment plans, tell you what the court will look into while settling the amount, and who will pay for the growth of the child etc. An expert attorney can evaluate your situation and guide you, keeping yours and the child’s interest.
