Child custody battles can be emotionally charged and complex. In Indiana, as in many states, the court’s primary concern is the best interests of the child. However, parents often make mistakes during these proceedings that can negatively impact their case. Seeking legal representation can provide you with valuable insight and tips to help you manage this process. This blog will address common pitfalls to avoid during your Indiana child custody case.
One of the biggest mistakes parents make is allowing their emotions to guide their decisions. While it is natural to feel hurt or angry during a divorce, letting these emotions dictate your actions can be detrimental to your child custody case. Avoid making rash decisions, speaking negatively about your ex-partner in front of your children, and using your children as messengers. Seek counseling or therapy to manage your emotions, and always prioritize your children’s well-being over your feelings toward your ex. In the digital age, your online presence can significantly impact your custody case. Refrain from posting negative comments about your ex, sharing photos that could be misconstrued, or discussing your case openly on social platforms. Try temporarily deactivating your social media accounts or at the very least be extremely cautious about what you post.
Once temporary custody orders are in place, it is crucial to follow them strictly. Disregarding visitation schedules, being consistently late for pickups or drop-offs, or denying the other parent their court-ordered time with the children. Adhere to the temporary order meticulously. If changes are necessary, work through proper legal channels to modify the order. Proper documentation can make or break your child custody case. Indiana courts favor parents who demonstrate a willingness to cooperate and co-parent effectively. Being inflexible with schedules, refusing to communicate about the children, or undermining the other parent’s authority will not be helpful during this proceeding. Show the court that you are willing to work with your ex for the benefit of your children. Be flexible when possible and maintain open, respectful communication about your children’s needs.
Putting children in the middle of custody disputes can be harmful to them and reflect poorly on you in court. Refrain from asking children to choose sides, discussing legal matters with them, or using them to gather information about the other parent. Shield your children from the legal aspects of the custody battle. Reassure them that both parents love them and that the changes are not their fault. The stress of a custody battle can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Avoid neglecting self-care, which can lead to poor decision-making and negatively impact your case. Prioritize your well-being. Maintain a healthy lifestyle, seek support from friends and family, and consider professional help if needed.
Your behavior in court and towards court officials can significantly influence the outcome of your case. Avoid being late to court appearances, dressing inappropriately, or showing disrespect to the judge, lawyers, or other court officials. Be punctual, dress professionally, and always show respect for the court process and everyone involved. Not understanding the laws and procedures specific to Indiana can put you at a disadvantage. Making assumptions based on other states’ laws or outdated information can be harmful. Educate yourself on Indiana’s child custody laws and procedures. Consider consulting with a family law attorney who specializes in Indiana custody cases.
Being overly rigid in your demands can prolong the process and potentially harm your case. Adopting an “all or nothing” mentality or refusing to consider reasonable compromises will not have the most positive impact on your child custody proceedings. Be open to negotiation and focus on finding solutions that truly benefit your children. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can strengthen your position in an Indiana child custody case. The attorneys at Ciyou & Associates, P.C. have ample experience with child custody matters in Indiana and can help you through this process. This blog was written by attorneys at Ciyou & Associates, P.C., and this blog is not intended to provide specific legal advice or solicitation of services as this is an advertisement.
