Divorce can be a messy affair, especially when there are children involved. You want to do everything you can to prove to the court that you deserve to have custody of your children. While no one can guarantee the outcome of a child custody hearing, there are some things you can do to put yourself in the best light to win custody of your children.
Step 1
Study different elements of child custody to decide which type of custody you are fighting for. Sole custody, joint custody and shared custody all mean different things and have different requirements. Understanding the differences among them can help you achieve your custody goals.
Step 2
Hire a lawyer experienced in child support and custody cases. Ask to see past results of child custody cases, especially ones where the lawyer represented someone of the same gender as you.
Step 3
Be willing to compromise, according to Jeffrey McAdams, an experienced family attorney Don't expect to get everything you want in your child support custody case, or you might end up with nothing. Your willingness to compromise on the small things may help you get the larger things you can't live without.
Step 4
Hire a psychologist who testifies on behalf of both mothers and fathers to act as an independent custody evaluator in court, according to McAdams. A biased, outside party can be effective in convincing the court you're willing and able to take on the responsibilities of child custody.
Step 5
Avoid overtly negative statements about your spouse to your children or in court proceedings. The court will likely take into account your demeanor and the respect you show for other people in the decision, according to McAdams, so be noncombative and show deference to all parties involved.
Step 6
Show a willingness to modify your lifestyle if necessary. The judge may ask you how you're willing to change your work schedule, social life and other aspects in order to accommodate the custody agreement you're seeking.
Step 7
Ask for a temporary trial custody period. If you can prove to the judge that you can make your desired custody arrangement work, he may be more willing to grant it on a permanent basis.
