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Essential Prep Work For Meeting With A Custody Attorney

When there is a dispute between you and your spouse about who will have custody, the only way to settle it is in court where a judge will make the final decision. If your main goal during your divorce is to retain child custody, you will need to work with an attorney to help get the outcome you want. Child custody cases can be difficult and emotional, which is why you need to be well prepared before you meet with an attorney for the first time. Make sure you have the following things in order.

Make A List of Questions For The Attorney

You do not want to hire anybody to help you with your custody battle, as you will need somebody that has experience and success with these types of cases in the past.

Start with some basic questions, such as how long they have been practicing law, and what their success rate is with child custody cases. After telling the attorney your story, ask if they have ever had a client that was in a similar situation as you. This will give you a great overview of their background in custody cases.

Since each state is different with custody laws and proceedings, ask the attorney about any laws related to child custody that would apply to you and your jurisdiction. For example, the judge may be allowed to talk to your child and ask them what their wishes are. This could highly influence your case if you know your child wants to stay with you.

Also, ask for the attorney to walk you through the custody hearing process so you know exactly what to expect.

Gather Important Documentation

Since custody is decided in court, you'll need plenty of documentation to help support your case. Consider gathering the following things:

  • Any documented history of child abuse or neglect.
  • Proof of your spouse's criminal history, or alcohol and drug related issues.
  • Your child's report cards and attendance records, especially if your child would change schools if they stayed with your spouse.
  • Proof of personal income with a budget for all child expenses.
  • DNA testing and birth certificate if paternity is being challenged.

If you take the time to interview a couple potential candidates, you will be sure to find somebody that can help fight on your behalf. Custody battles can be tough, but by being well prepared, you will have the best chance possible of winning custody. 

Talk to experts like http://nelsonlawgrouppc.com/ for more information.


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