Are you going through a divorce in the Naples, FL area? It’s normal for divorce to feel chaotic at times – and one of the most emotionally-charged aspects of divorce is child custody. Getting clarity can reduce the risk of critical mistakes. Professionals agree on some basic tips that help you achieve what’s ultimately best for you and your children!
- Don’t Forget about the Best Interests of the Child Standard
When awarding child custody in Florida, judges make decisions based on the Best Interests of the Child Standard. Remember that this is a good thing! Courts want the best for your children. You can promote a favorable outcome by showing that you are also pursuing the child’s best interests. According to Dad’s Divorce, judges look at factors such as:
- The length of time that the child has been under the actual care of each parent.
- The type of interaction and relationship the child has with each parent, and other family members
- The child’s adjustment to home, school, community, and more.
- The willingness of each parent to respect the bond between the child and the other parent
- Any evidence or allegation of neglect or spousal abuse
- Any evidence or allegation of child abuse with the children in question and any other children
- Whether either parent is required to register as a sex offender
- Whether either parent is residing with someone who has been convicted of child abuse
2. Don’t Behave Rashly or Carelessly
When going through a divorce process, men and women alike need to be especially careful not to let their tempers, frustrations, and emotions get the best of them. LiveAbout warns that acting on your emotions can do you a huge disservice! Rash, careless, and combative behavior can actually be used against you in courts. Do everything in your power to avoid:
- Yelling matches
- Alienation towards children
- Physical confrontations
- Moving in with a new significant other
- Criticizing your spouse when talking to friends and family
- Failing to pay child support
- Damaging property belonging to your spouse or spouse’s family.
A good general rule is to act civil, and behave as if your words and actions are being monitored by the courts. Think about how your words and actions will live up to the Best Interests of the Child Standard in the judge’s eyes.
3. Don’t Violate Child Custody Agreements
Going against the agreements of your pre-existing child custody arrangements will definitely backfire, and could cause you to lose your custody privileges altogether. Avoid these common mistakes:
- Taking children out of the agreed upon area (usually the city where you live) without notifying your spouse
- Removing children from daycare or school without notifying their other parent
- Delaying contact with your spouse when your children are with you
In doubt about how your actions will affect your custody agreements? Just to ask an experienced attorney! Don’t risk losing what’s most important to you. Michael M. Raheb is here to use his legal experience and guaranteed personal attention for your case! Call us at 239-226-0888 or contact us online.
The Law Offices of
Michael M. Raheb, P.A.
2423 First Street,
Fort Myers FL 33901
Office: 239-226-0888
Fax Number: 866-949-0888
