Divorce, they say, is like taking a roller coaster ride of emotions. At one point, you will feel happy about finally having the courage to end a bad marriage. And yet, there is also the aspect of dealing with the former spouse who seems to make it his life goal to make your life a bit harder each time. Fighting for the custody of the children is one of the most upsetting parts of the divorce process. When fighting for the care of the children, it is imperative that you understand how the process works and that is when it is best to have a divorce lawyer by your side.
A divorce lawyer will help you focus on the issues at hand concerning the custody of the children. Apart from looking into the many ways you can convince the judge that you are the “better parent,” a divorce lawyer could also help you highlight why the other parent isn’t as good as you. In the process, you will have to learn to protect yourself and your rights during the custody battle. Here are some ways on how you can do that:
• Talk to a family lawyer or divorce lawyer early on. If you are looking at filing for a divorce or if you feel like your spouse is already planning to do the same, it is best to find yourself a good lawyer first. Not only will it ensure that you get the best representation, but you will have enough time to plan the strategies that you will be taking carefully.
• Learn the laws governing the area where you live. Certain parts of Canada may come with very specific rules regarding child support and child custody. You have to educate yourself on these laws before any form of arrangement is made. When you know the rules, you can become more prepared.
• Keep all legal documents on hand, especially when it seems that paternity issues will be raised. Remember that you will have to prove that you are the most responsible parent, but you will have to demonstrate that you are the parent of the child too. If you can, it would be best to present DNA test results, if the situation seems to make it impossible.
• Collect as much information about who is currently taking care of your child as this will matter when the court decides on the primary caregiver of your child. When determining custody, the court will always look at the best interest of the child to ensure that proper care and protection is provided despite the divorce.
Whether it is you or your spouse who is granted custody, the most important thing is that the children are properly taken care of. Apart from being provided all their needs, the children should be given enough support and attention to ensure their growth despite what happened to the family.