Six Ways You Could Hurt Your Child Custody Case from Outside the Courtroom

The process of divorce can put everyone involved under a lot of stress. The renegotiation of family structures can be complicated and emotionally difficult. This is true even in cases in which the divorcing partners are well-intentioned.

When partners with children are divorcing, things can become even more complicated. Small frustrations or disagreements can escalate quickly when custody of a child is at stake.

Child custody disputes are emotionally fraught, but you should remember that your words and actions could affect your case. This is true even outside of the courtroom.

In the following post, we will discuss six ways that you can hurt your ability to secure custody. Avoiding these missteps will help you to secure the best outcome in your case.

1. Being Uncooperative

Even if you have a dim view of your parenting partner, negative feelings should never take priority over your child’s best interests.

Parents who refuse reasonable communication will make the court believe they do not care about the wellbeing of the child. Being uncooperative will only hurt your chances of securing custody.

If you are unable to have productive conversations with your former partner, reach out to a family law attorney for guidance.

2. Denying Visitation without Good Reason

Any attempt to unreasonably cut off the child from their other parent will hinder your case. If you are withholding visitation to hurt the other parent, the court will think you are putting your emotions above the needs of your child.

There are exceptions to this, of course. If you suspect that the child is experiencing abuse, you can seek a court order to ensure their protection. It is important to make the court aware of any significant threat to the child’s safety.

3. Venting Anger in Front of the Child

Once again, the child’s best interests should be the primary motivator in all your actions. It is damaging to speak badly about the other parent in front of your child.

Do your best to maintain a compassionate and constructive approach to the child custody process. Never fight with your parenting partner or speak negatively about them when your child is present.

4. Damaging Social Media Engagement

Posting on social media feels like a private action that only your closest friends will see. This is a dangerously misleading feeling. Posting to social media platforms in the wrong way can damage your child custody case.

The following types of posts are very harmful:

• Images of you using illegal drugs or being intoxicated
• Negative statements about your parenting partner
• Sensitive or private information

Never post anything on social media that you do not want to be brought to the attention of the courts.

5. Disobeying Court Orders

Violating any of the judge’s orders, including visitation schedules, will be seen as a disrespect to the court. Before you consent to any schedule or agreement, speak with a family law attorney.

Showing respect to the court is a crucial part of any child custody battle.

6. Failing to Hire a Family Attorney

The child custody process is very complex. Managing the court dates, paperwork, and visitation schedules can be overwhelming.

It is vital to have a representative who can fight on your behalf. Speak with an experienced family attorney, like the team at Gucciardo Family Law, to have the best chance of securing a positive outcome in your child custody dispute.