27 Nov 2023

Family Law
Whether as part of a divorce or after establishing paternity, a child custody hearing can be stressful. A third party is deciding what rights you and your ex-partner have over your children. As stressful as it can be, being prepared can help relieve some of the anxiety. In this blog, we will provide some tips and advice from our experienced family law attorneys at Lermitte & Lubin, LLC to help you prepare for your child custody hearing.

Understanding Child Custody Hearings

A child custody hearing is a legal process where a judge makes decisions on who will have physical and legal custody of a child. These hearings typically occur during divorce proceedings or when there are disputes between unmarried parents. During a child custody hearing, both parties will have the opportunity to present their case and provide evidence in support of their desired outcome. The judge will consider factors such as the child's best interests, each parent's ability to care for the child, and any existing custody arrangements before making the final decision.

Tips for Preparing for a Child Custody Hearing

#1. Hire an Experienced Family Law Attorney

Navigating a child custody hearing can be complex and emotionally charged. Having a knowledgeable and skilled family law attorney by your side can make all the difference. We will be able to guide you through the process, advocate for your rights, and help you present a strong case.

#2. Gather Evidence

As mentioned earlier, evidence is crucial in a child custody hearing. This can include:
  • Financial statements
  • School records of the children
  • Medical records of the children
  • Any previous court orders
It's important to gather as much evidence as possible to support your case. Not all documents can be considered evidence, however. This includes:
  • Hearsay
  • Illegally obtained documents (such as the other parent’s medical records)
  • Unauthenticated videos or photos (this requires the person who took the video and/or photos to testify)

#3. Prepare Your Testimony

You will likely be asked to provide testimony during the child custody hearing. This is your opportunity to share your side of the story and why you believe you should have a specific type of custody of your child. Take time to prepare what you want to say and practice delivering it clearly and concisely.

#4. Dress Appropriately

While this may seem like a small detail, dressing appropriately can make a good impression on the judge. It shows that you take the hearing seriously and respect the court process. Avoid wearing anything too casual, and opt for professional attire.

#5. Stay Calm and Focused

Child custody hearings can be emotionally charged, but it's important to remain calm and focused during the proceedings. This will help you present a strong case and show the judge that you are capable of handling stressful situations maturely.

#6. Prepare for Questions

The judge may ask you questions during the hearing to better understand your situation. Anticipate potential questions and prepare answers in advance. This will help you feel more confident and avoid any surprises.

#7. Be on Time

Make sure to arrive at the courthouse early on the day of your child custody hearing. This will give you time to find parking, go through security, locate the correct courtroom, and prepare with your attorney. Being late can reflect poorly on you and may cause unnecessary stress.

Contact the Family Law Attorneys at Lermitte & Lubin, LLC

Preparing for a child custody hearing can be overwhelming, but following these tips can help you feel more prepared and confident. Remember to hire an experienced family law attorney, gather evidence, prepare your testimony, dress appropriately, stay calm and focused, anticipate questions, and be on time. By doing so, you will be better equipped to present a strong case and advocate for the best interests of your child. If you need further guidance or assistance with your child custody hearing, our team at Lermitte & Lubin, LLC is here to help. We have extensive experience in family law and can provide personalized support and advice for your specific situation. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

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