You and your soon-to-be ex-spouse fighting for child custody can be challenging since custody battles are known for being emotional. Besides, you may need to go through complicated processes. And mistakes can worsen your experience.
It’s critical to be intentional about all the decisions you make during a custody battle. Here are three mistakes to avoid:
1. Lying
A parent may lie during a custody battle to gain leverage. They may fabricate or exaggerate issues so that the other one seems unfit to raise the child. Some parents lie to get revenge or out of desperation.
Note that the court may assess witness statements and get more information from investigations to evaluate your claims. If they discover you lied, your credibility may be harmed. You may not be believed in future proceedings.
Besides, lying to the court under oath can result in perjury charges. You may end up paying a fine, going to jail, or having a criminal record. Additionally, if you are caught lying to the court, you may be required to pay the other parent’s legal fees.
2. Being disrespectful
Being disrespectful towards the other parent can affect your case. Firstly, it may result in conflicts that can further complicate your process, which eventually can negatively impact your child. Further, the court may view your behavior as a lack of self-control. This can bring into question your fitness to raise your child.
You should also not disrespect the court. Obey court orders and show that you respect the legal system.
3. Withholding your child
If you unjustifiably deny the other parent access to the child, the court may see it as a tactic to prevent your child from having a relationship with the other parent.
Mistakes could prove costly if you are fighting for custody of your child. Learn more about how to protect your parental rights before doing anything.