Fathers have notoriously received significantly less custody than mothers. Whether a Nebraska court rules in favor of individual parents depends on the conduct and ability of each parent to provide for their child. The court always looks at the best interest of your child in determining whether joint custody makes sense for his or her development and safety.
Most dads know that court proceedings prove essential in explaining the solid relationship between you and your child. Yet many don’t grasp that the documentation and hearings are quite literally the only personal evidence a judge can cite in determining custody. To ensure you hold the best chance of receiving maximum custody, you may wish to depict your commitment by following these tips.
- Be present. Showing up to court hearings proves essential. Although your work schedule may conflict, the judge could make the false determination that you are not committed to your child, and worse, your ex-wife could demonstrate full attendance.
- Be involved. Involvement in both court proceedings and negotiations, as well as involvement in your child’s life, describes a committed father. Attend school events, games and practices or other activities. If the judge interviews your child, your child will be honest in determining that you have and will continue to be an involved father.
- Emphasize relationships. If you have a strong relationship with your son or daughter, explain it. The judge was not at your last fishing trip, tea party or father/child art class. Describing various bonding moments will not constitute a brag–it may be the details a judge needs to make a joint custody decision.
- Demonstrate preparation. Know the proceeding process. Bring all necessary documents, and be more of a partner to your attorney than simply a client. Your life and your child’s life may be drastically changed, and you don’t want to seem confused in the courtroom, especially if your ex-wife understands all elements.
- Describe the impact. Awarding sole custody to your ex-wife would be devastating for you, but let the judge understand that the decision would be detrimental to the growth and development of your child.
A Nebraska judge always makes decisions in the best interest of the child. Know that if a judge determines that joint custody is not a viable option, your situation may change and a custody arrangement may be altered. Remember to keep your child’s safety and security in mind before making demands for custody.