What are some of the most common and costly child custody mistakes to avoid in Louisville divorce cases? Child custody and visitation is often one of the most contentious issues in a divorce and there are definitely actions you can take which will sabotage your own interests. What are some of the more common mistakes you should avoid if your are entering into a contentious child custody or parenting time dispute during a divorce?
The first is acting with malice or speaking harshly about your former spouse, especially in front of the children. If you are badmouthing the other parent on social media, or to your family, friends or even coworkers you are likely to face a surprising “reveal” during child custody hearings: testimony showing your acrimonious actions. Family Law Courts here in Louisville are looking for both parents to encourage a healthy relationship between your child(ren) and their other parent.
Avoid texting, emailing, voicemails or social media if you are experiencing any anger or issues with your former spouse. Your hostile words and actions can be used as evidence to add weight against your own interests.
Taking actions regarding the children without consulting the other parent is another common mistake. You are still required as a parent to share important decisions and communicate openly about the interests of a child until the court issues orders to the contrary. If you take a significant action like missing a medical appointment for your child, remove them from a school or extra-curricular activity without consulting the other parent you provide direct evidence to the Court regarding your ability to cooperate in the future and make sound decisions in the best interest of your child(ren).
Moving in with a new partner is another of the common and costly child custody mistakes to avoid in Louisville divorce cases which can impact your interests in child custody proceedings. Generally speaking, our Family Law Courts look for a sense of “routine” and trying to help the children to experience as much of a “normal” routine as possible. The Court is looking for stable home life, continuance of existing routines and activities and continuing access to well known friends and family. Moving in with another or allowing them to move into your home can substantially impact how the Judge will look at the stability of your home and your focus on the best interests and stability of your child(ren).
The experienced divorce and child custody attorneys at Dodd & Dodd have represented clients before Louisville Family Law Courts for many decades. We provide sound counsel informed by the extensive experience we have gained over decades of negotiating, mediating and, when necessary, trying components of these cases before the Family Court.
If you wish to avoid common and costly child custody mistakes to avoid in Louisville divorce we invite you to review the strong recommendations of our clients and contact us or call 502-584-1108 to schedule an appointment with one of our attorneys.
