subject: Child Custody Guidelines And Rules [print this page] When a parent enters into a child custody case, they more than likely are entering new territory that they have no previous knowledge about. This can make the ordeal an even more stressful and anxious time. Following are some of the child custody guidelines and rules that courts refer to in order to make their decisions about child custody. Knowing a little about what to expect when you go to court can help reduce your anxiety, and help you prepare your case.
The first rule or guideline to understand is that judges want to know that the custodial parent has the free time needed to provide their child with the attention needed. Parents with demanding careers may not be considered the best candidate to provide the child with the care and nurturing that is expected from the custodial parent. Careers that demand long office hours and out of town travel are time demanding.
The second guideline to rememvber is that judges won't rely on just the most recent involvement the parent has had with the child. They will also consider their pattern of involvement in their child's lives up to the time of the custody hearing.
The likelihood that the parent will provide a positive environment for their child guides the decision as well. The better you are at working with the other parent to make decisions that are for the good of the child, the more likely you are to win custody. A parent should provide an atmosphere that eliminates stress factors and unnecessary negative influences.
Another rule that is followed is the judge considering the character of the parent and determine if they have shown to be a consistently strong moral person who has help a job for an extended period of time, has no history of alcohol or substance abuse, and has never been proven unfaithful to his/her marriage. The custodial parent will teach their child from the examples they set and the judge wants to know that they will be the ones that the child should learn.
Of course, finances and other factors can influence the judge's decision in determining custody of a child but the primary considerations are those that will encourage the development of the child in a positive way. The purpose in determining which parent is the custodial parent is to provide the child with the lifestyle that will encourage him/her to grow in a healthy, happy environment.
Be prepared when you go into court. Know the custody guidelines and rules that will impact your case. If you are lacking in any of these areas, you should be prepared to defend any of your actions or conditions that can influence the decision of the judge. It is also in your best interest to work cooperatively with the other parent up to the time of the hearing since this will let the judge know that you have the best interests of your child at heart.
by: Hera Nelsun
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