Some California parents who choose to divorce are able to resolve their custody concerns out of court. Through discussions and negotiations, the two parties may be able to craft a custody plan that allows them to work together reasonably and provide stability for the children. However, that may not be possible for you. You may be facing a contentious custody battle in the weeks and months ahead.
Your purpose in your custody fight is to protect the best interests of your children above all else. You also want to be certain to secure terms that protect your parental rights and the role you have in the lives of your kids. When the other parent is unwilling to compromise, combative and unreasonable, it is necessary to take your custody disputes to court for a resolution.
Set yourself up for success
It is never a prudent idea to go into a custody battle without preparation and an understanding of what is ahead. Before and during the process you will go through while fighting for a fair custody order in court, the following may be beneficial for you:
- Make it a point to document all interactions you have with the other parent, especially when there are problems or refusal to cooperate with a temporary custody plan.
- Keep from passing messages to the other parent through the children, as this will make them feel like they are stuck in the middle.
- Refrain from posting details about your parenting concerns and your relationship with the other parent on social media.
- Refrain from talking badly about the other parent in front of the kids, as this can be harmful for their mental and emotional health.
- Before you head to court, it is beneficial to separate your accounts and change all of your passwords, including for your social media accounts.
A custody battle is stressful, and it can take months to complete this process. However, you don’t have to go into it unprepared or blindly. By taking the time to prepare yourself for what’s ahead, you may give yourself a better chance of long-term success. While this is not easy, it may be helpful to remember that the well-being of your kids is the main priority, and you have the right to fight for your relationship with your children.