Divorce is never an easy thing to go through in Minnesota, especially when there are children involved. If both parents want some sort of custody over the children, the courts will then begin a child custody case. Unfortunately, simply stating that you are the best parent for your children is not enough to win. Thus the following includes further information on the steps you need to take in order to prevail in a custody dispute.
Communication first
Before you begin creating your case, it is important to explore the possibility of coming into an agreement with your spouse first. If you are not looking for sole custody of the children, you may have a chance to find some common ground where both parties win. This process should involve both parent’s attorneys to ensure that everything is legal and in writing.
Prep work
If no agreement can be reached, it is time to prep for your case. This involves hiring a family law attorney and studying the different laws regarding child custody within your state. One key thing to keep in mind when doing your prep work is to not focus on yourself. The courts are going to consider what is in the best interest of the children, not necessarily the parents. You can help this process along by being informed about your child. That includes knowing who their friends are and how they are doing in school, to name a few.
Factors a judge will take into consideration
When creating your case, remember that there are a number of factors that a judge will take into consideration when making their decision. Ensure that the following are included in your gameplan:
- Proper behavior throughout the case.
- Witness testimonies showing you’re the better parent.
- Documents proving your case or disproving your former spouse’s claims.
If you’re about to go into a child custody case, it is imperative that you seek legal advice before taking any further steps. Doing so may help you strengthen your case when it eventually goes before a judge.
