Obtaining full physical custody of a child or children will vary in difficulty depending on each individual situation and on the laws of the court in your particular area. If the other parent is missing or unwilling to fight for custody and visitation, you will have an easier time obtaining full custody. If the other parent is willing, able and capable of fighting for custody, your task will be significantly more challenging.
Instructions
1. Consult with an attorney who specializes in child custody. Find an attorney who practices predominantly in the county of which you reside, as they will know the rules of the court better than an attorney outside the area. Most attorneys offer free consultations, so you will not be out any expenses by just meeting with them and discussing your potential case. Call your local bar association for a referral if needed.
2. Be sure you are offering your child or children a safe and stable home environment. This is often the first thing a judge will consider when dealing with a child custody case. A home visit may occur, so make sure the home is safe and offers up no hazards, such as exposed electrical parts, broken windows, etc. Also, have working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in the home. Refrain from moving around, and try to keep the child or children in the same school district.
3. Avoid moving in with a dating partner too soon or having them move in with you. Wait until after the custody hearing has taken place before making any drastic lifestyle changes. Keep in mind, even in doing so, the other parent may take you back to court for custody if they don't agree with your lifestyle choices.
4. Keep your work schedule around the child's needs. If you are unavailable or need to rely on daycare or sitters more than the other parent would, you will most likely not win sole custody, or full custody. Be there as much as possible for the child.
5. Create a file folder to keep track of bank records, school records and copies of all legal proceedings pertaining to the child custody suit. Keep a daily log if needed regarding events surrounding the child and children and the other parent. The more data you can show the court, the stronger your child custody case will be.
Tags: other parent, child children, child custody, child custody case, custody case, full custody
