For many parents, going through a child custody proceeding can be one of the toughest and most challenging times in their life. If you’re going through a child custody battle, you want to do everything you can to make the best of your case. Unfortunately, you may be negatively affecting your child custody claim without knowing it. Make sure you’re not one of them. Consider the following situations:
Saying the Wrong Thing
Unfortunately, everything you say outside of the courtroom has the potential of making its way into your case. Words that you spout off in real life or on social media because you’re angry or frustrated may come up during the proceeding if you’re not careful. You should avoid making threats or saying things that would indicate that you are violent, unstable, or not fit to take care of your child in any way. This is especially important in conversations with your child’s other parent, but it applies in conversations mutual friends and family members as well.
Making Physical Contact with Your Significant Other or Children
Anyone who has a history of domestic violence will be less likely to be awarded child custody. However, in some situations, physical contact that is otherwise normal can be taken out of context in custody proceedings. For example, grabbing your child with some force, yelling or threatening anybody, and even playing with your child too roughly can sometimes cause problems for your case. You should be extra cautious while your claim is pending. Walk away to calm down if you feel especially frustrated or angry.
Moving in with a Significant Other
Children have a hard time processing child custody matters, especially if their parents are also going through a divorce. If you add in another person to their living arrangements, things get even more complicated. Courts look closely at new significant others when awarding child custody because they realize that the child will be around this new person frequently. It is a good idea to simply wait to move in with your new partner until after everything has been finalized.
Denying the Other Parent Contact with the Child
Courts place a high value on children having a meaningful relationship with both parents. They will consider how likely one parent is to provide a means to contact the other parent when deciding on custody. Showing signs that you can work together with the other parent will help you with your child custody claim in the long run. Co-parenting will always be your best option.
Child custody claims can be extremely difficult to navigate, and your actions can sometimes make it harder than it has to be. Don’t fall into these traps and sabotage your own case! For guidance and support on your Texas child custody case, contact the Hollwarth Law Firm today.