Child Custody
When fighting for custody, a parent may be overwhelmed with pressure and the stress of the legal process. During this time, a parent must do everything possible in hopes the judge will award him or her as the sole custodial parent. Physical custody also ensures your child will be living with you and under your direct care. An attorney can help you throughout each step of this process. Our legal team has been dedicated to assisting parents during what may be one of the toughest battles of their life. Here in the article to follow, we have listed the steps involved when working towards obtaining custody of your child.
#1 Speak with an Attorney
Hiring an attorney is not necessary, but is highly recommended. By not consulting with an attorney, there may be crucial aspects of your case that you haven’t considered. Additionally, an attorney can get you more familiar with child custody laws that apply specifically to your state.
#2 Complete & File All Necessary Documents
Fill out all needed paperwork entirely, and correctly. There may be delays in the processing if any boxes are left empty, or there is not enough information provided. Your attorney can help answer any questions you have about this paperwork. The majority of states require that the parent who is filing for child custody must submit in person. However, if you hire an attorney they may be able to do this for you.
#3 Get Ready for the Court Date
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Once you get your custody hearing date and time, meet with an attorney for a consultation on how to get yourself prepared. The average hearing takes about fifteen to twenty minutes, so practice what exactly you want to say when pleading your case. There won’t be a jury, so you will only have to be concerned with speaking to the judge. Focus on what you are there to express, and try to not get worked up by anything your ex may say. Your attorney can represent you in court. Once the hearing is over, you have to be patient and wait until the judge has made an official ruling.
#4 Follow the Judge’s Call
Once you are notified of the results, you must abide by the judge’s decision. Seriously consider what actions the court recommends, whether they suggest you take a parenting class, get an apartment, or find employment. If you do not get the custody you desired, remember that you can appeal to the court down the line. It can speak volumes if you have accomplished all the things the court advises when you submit the appeal.
The best child custody lawyers Rockville, MD trusts can offer legal strategy, guidance, advice and representation when getting prepared for your child custody hearing. They understand how emotional this battle may be, and will do what we can to fight for the results you want. Thank you to our friends at The Law Office of Daniel J. Wright for their insight into child custody.
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