If you are going through a divorce, it is likely that one of your main priorities is preserving the interests of your children. The end of your marriage will bring significant changes to your life, as well as to the lives of your kids. It is in your interests to ensure that they have stability and security provided to them through the terms of a clear, sustainable and reasonable custody and visitation order.
In some cases, Texas parents are able to reach reasonable terms on their custody and visitation order on their own. However, an out-of-court solution may not be available to you. If that is the case, you will need to prepare for a custody hearing in court. Preparing is essential as your preparedness could make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. You may benefit from knowing what is ahead and how you can fight for the well-being of your kids.
Getting ready for what’s ahead
There is no such thing as a simple or easy child custody hearing, even if you intend to be amiable and reasonable. This is an emotional and difficult issue to navigate, and the more prepared you are, the easier it will be to seek terms that you believe will benefit your children. Some of the things you can do to get ready for your custody hearing include:
- Understand the custody laws of your state and the standards upheld by the court.
- Gather all important documentation and bring what you need to court with you.
- Understand what the better-parent standard means, especially if you are seeking sole custody.
- Learn the proper etiquette for the courtroom, and know what to expect during the actual hearing.
- Dress appropriately, keep your emotions in check and keep your focus on what truly matters.
The terms of your custody and visitation order will impact you and your children for years to come, and while your feelings are valid, temporary emotions should not be the basis for any important decisions you make. It is in your interests to have professional assistance as you prepare for your hearing and fight for what you believe is best for your kids. It may be helpful to start by seeking an assessment of your case and explanation of the specific legal options available to you.