Fighting for child custody can be incredibly difficult, but many parents in Texas simply have no choice. If you’re facing this situation, you may feel overwhelmed and confused about the process.
Despite some challenges, there are a few ways you can increase your chances of gaining custody of your child. Follow these tips to learn how to increase your chances of succeeding with your custody battle.
Consult with an expert to familiarize yourself with your state’s laws
If settling out of court isn’t an option, it’s important to become more familiar with your state’s child custody rules. Like other legal matters, child custody issues are usually governed by state law. When going through the process of determining child custody, understanding the laws of your state can be helpful.
Evaluate areas of disagreement between you and your ex
If you’re hoping to win a custody battle, try to evaluate why your ex is fighting you. For example, if you’re seeking joint custody, but your ex is seeking full custody, try to find out why your ex is trying to only give you weekend visitations. The more prepared you are before you go to court, the better the outcome should be. Common reasons for disagreements may include:
• Allegations of child abuse
• Endangerment of the child
• Alcohol or substance abuse problems
Make sure you fill out all the right forms
After you determine which forms you’ll need to file for child custody, make sure you don’t leave out any information. Failing to fully complete each form could cause your case to be delayed. If you aren’t working with a lawyer, you’ll need to file the forms yourself.
Stay patient and persistent
Although a child custody case can be emotionally taxing, try to stay calm. With patience and persistence, you can get through this difficult time.