If you're dealing with custody issues, and it appears that a battle is about to erupt, now's the time to start planning your strategy. The first thing you need to do is consider how the battle will affect your kids. Here are some steps you'll need to take if your child custody has erupted into a full-blown battle.

1. Keep the Battle Away From Your Kids

If a custody fight has erupted, you've got to keep the battle away from your kids. They don't need to hear about all the details. If you need to have a conversation with your ex, or even with your attorney, do so away from your kids. Kids are resilient, but custody battles can wreak havoc on their well-being. When kids are drawn into custody battles, they can struggle emotionally and physically. They can even become withdrawn and begin to suffer in their schoolwork. Protect your kids by keeping them as far away from the battle as possible.

2. Understand Your Reasons for Fighting

If you're going to embark on a custody battle, make sure you understand your reasons for fighting. Custody battles can be emotionally and financially draining. If your reasons for fighting involve the safety and well-being of your children, be sure to document your reasons thoroughly. That way, you have the evidence you need to fight a good fight for your kids. This is particularly important when it comes to issues involving abuse. If your battle does involve concerns about abuse, you're going to need an attorney who specializes in child custody law.

3. Practice an Additional Measure of Self-Control

If you are fighting for custody of your children, you'll need to practice an additional measure of self-control. You don't want to do anything that could come back to haunt you during the court proceedings. For instance, no matter how mad you are at your ex, don't vent your feelings on social media pages or to friends. You never know when your ex will gain access to your rants. Unfortunately, if your ex does gain access to those rants, they could be used against you in court.

4. Document Every Interaction

If your current custody arrangement isn't working, and it looks like a battle is looming, start documenting every interaction you have with your ex. This should include details regarding each conversation, as well as issues regarding custody and visitation. For instance, if your ex is suddenly late for every drop-off and pickup, make sure you provide documentation for the tardiness. If your ex has become combative during conversations or during one-on-one meetings, have someone else with you. That way, those interactions don't turn into your word against theirs.

Share