Custody battles can be one of the most challenging experiences a parent can have. Unfortunately, sometimes, the relationship between the parents is combative and the parties may lie about each other, thinking that doing so will help them win. While many courts are able to identify parents who are adversarial and create conflict, that is not always the case.
In such situations, you will have to fight against those false claims. We recommend four strategies to help you combat these claims while remaining nonadversarial.
- Document everything
- Seek legal representation
- Engage with a child psychologist
- Prepare for court
Documenting things like emails or text messages from the other parent that could potentially expose their lies can be helpful, so try to document as much evidence as you can. All of this will be helpful when you meet with your attorney, who will explain to you, step-by-step, what the process is and how they will advocate for you.
Oftentimes, part of this advocacy means bringing in professionals like a child psychologist or custody evaluator. The latter are professionals designated by the court to evaluate each parent’s ability to parent their children and consider the children’s best interests, which is what the court uses to make a custody determination.
Lastly, preparing for court can involve practicing your testimony, organizing evidence with your attorney and asking them if they have counsel they can impart for a successful custody hearing. Staying calm and composed will show the court that you are there for the sole purpose of ensuring your child’s best interest is front and center.