For a dad, it is extremely hard to win custody of a child even though the courts don't usually discriminate against fathers. Whether you are going for joint custody or full custody, you should be ready to fight a difficult battle.
Things can get even harder if the mother is also filing for custody. In times like these, only experienced divorce attorneys, such as divorce attorney Doug Thomas can help you out. Here are some other tips that you as a father can follow if you want to get custody of your child.
Make Regular Child Support Payments
As a dad who is looking for joint or full custody of the child, you should make sure to pay regular child support payments. If you already have an informal arrangement with your ex, you should maintain your records and keep the receipts and written letters from the mother about the child support arrangement.
If you are struggling to pay, you could request a modification but if you are able to make payments, then make sure to keep a good track record of these payments to show in court.
Build a Strong Relationship
If your child is not in your custody, then you should at least make a habit of calling him daily. A father must also stop by the child's school and introduce himself to the school staff. The child's progress must also be closely looked at.
When you get the time to meet your child, make sure to help them cope with your divorce as well because this is a hard period for the child as much as it is for the two of you.
Maintain Accurate Records
You should make sure to maintain accurate records of your visitation schedule to help you win child custody. Fathers can do this by coming up and maintaining a parenting plan. You can submit this plan in the court if your child custody plea is denied.
Attend Social and Important Gatherings
It is very important for a father who wants child custody to attend all the social and important gatherings of his child to show a continuing relationship with the child. You must be present at an important school event, on birthday parties, baptisms, sporting events and more.
The court will decide whether it will give you custody or not after they have checked the evidence of a meaningful relationship with your child.
Create a Space for your Child at Home
The court expects a father to have prepared a space for the child in his home when he is looking for full custody. The father will still be required to compile intelligent responses to questions the court will ask.
If you are unsure about what to answer, it is best to go to the court with a child custody lawyer. A lawyer will speak on behalf of you and will help you win the case by coming up with intelligent responses after they have seen what you are doing for the child.
