9.
See if there is some way to talk to the other parent, face to face, to resolve issues involving custody and parenting time before you start litigation.
8.
Make sure you have a thorough understanding of the Child Custody Act and the Twelve Factors of the Best Interests of the Child Statute.
Try to be as objective as possible, and weigh yourself and the other parent step-by-step through the twelve factors to determine whether or not you have a legitimate case for full custody or shared custody.
7.
If you file a custody case, have as much information and documentation as possible for your attorney, bearing in mind, that custody is based upon the best interests of your child or children.
6.
Bear in mind that a custody arrangement that makes sense for a infant or two year old, is going to be very different than that of a seven or eight year old.
An arrangement for a teenager will be very different as well.
The ages and needs of your children are important and should be carefully considered.
5.
When you file, keep a journal.
Keep track of any incidents involving the other parent and the children.
Keep track of any incidents involving the children.
Keep track of how much time you spend with the children.
4.
If you have to go to a court hearing or trial regarding custody and parenting time, be prepared.
Make sure you have witnesses who can support you, and discuss this in advance with your attorney.
Communicate fully with your attorney.
3.
If there is an independent psychological evaluation, this is something that must be discussed in advance and prepared for as well with your attorney.
Every case is different, and in many cases there is no need for a psychological evaluation, as the law is based upon the Twelve Factors, and that is something to bear in mind.
2.
If there is a way to settle the case without going to trial, or through a hearing, explore all options.
Look at mediation as an option.
Look at the appointment of a parenting coordinator in the appropriate situation as a way to try and resolve things.
It is important to bear in mind that a trial should be the last resort, because once you start a trial, or hearing, you will say things about the other parent, in court and on the record, which cannot be taken back.
The scars of a hearing or trial can impact for many years, not only on the other parent, but also on the children.
Keep your children out of court; minimize their exposure to the legal system, and bear in mind that they are the innocent victims in most situations of whatever is going on between you and the other parent.
1.
Have a good family law attorney.
Make sure that your attorney has experience in parenting time and child custody matters, and is knowledgeable about the legal system.
Make sure that you are fully represented, and that your attorney understands your needs and goals.
Try to set realistic goals, and discuss them with your attorney.
Bear in mind that it is what is in the best interests of your children that is paramount, and must come first; not what you feel is in their best interests, but what is actually in their best interests.