Important Things To Know About Child Custody
Going through a divorce is rarely easy for anyone. However, the entire process can become even more difficult when a divorcing couple shares children and must deal with the matter of child custody. For most people, child custody is a very touchy subject, and one of the hardest parts of going through a divorce. Most parents do not like to think about being separated from their children throughout the year, but it is part of being divorced. If you're going through a divorce, continue reading to learn more about what to expect when it comes to child custody:
Attempt to Create a Parenting Agreement with Your Spouse
When it comes to child custody, it is always in your best interest to retain a family law attorney who specializes in child custody law to assist you.The best case scenario when a couple is divorcing is for each parent to work together with their child custody attorney to create a parenting agreement. A comprehensive parenting agreement outlines most of the issues related to child custody. A parenting agreement tends to be the best option in the long run because both parents are able to give their input and opinions so they both feel heard. If you and your spouse are able to mutually agree on a parenting agreement, it can be added to your child custody order, which will make it legally binding.
Don't Automatically Expect Full Physical Custody
Many parents assume that they will be granted full physical custody, while their ex-spouse will only have limited visitation. In this day and age, that rarely happens anymore. The purpose of a child custody order is to look out for the best interests of the children involved, and in the eyes of the family courts in most states, this means that a child should get close to equal time with each parent. An exception is when one parent may pose a threat to a child. If you have reason to believe that your spouse may harm your child or if there have been abuse issues in the past, let your attorney know. These facts can change how custody is determined, and supervised visitation may be required.
Be Prepared to Fulfill Your Obligations
A child custody order is not a suggestion, it is a legal order. After a child custody order is signed off by a family court judge, it is important to follow it to the letter. Failure to follow a child custody order could lead to contempt of court charges. In addition, not following a child custody order can harm your children in the long run, and few parents want to psychologically damage their kids.
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