Divorce is almost always a stressful experience, but child custody disputes can be particularly overwhelming. You may be wondering which factors the courts will consider when awarding custody, and what you can do to improve the chances of a successful outcome to your case. A divorce attorney can answer your questions and represent your interests.
If you would like to discuss your case with a Queens child support lawyer, then contact the Elliot Green Law Offices. Call us today at 718-260-8668 to schedule a consultation.
Until then, read on to learn four steps that may improve your chances of winning custody:
- Consider Mediation
Custody mediation is a voluntary process that divorcing spouses can use to resolve conflicts. By agreeing to mediation, you not only will improve the chances of avoiding expensive court battles, but you may also look favorably in the eyes of a judge.
The main factor that determines a custody arrangement is the best interests of the child. Part of this is finding out if parents are willing to work together for their children’s well-being. A judge is more likely to award joint custody if you and your soon-to-be ex can find common ground on important issues.
- Hire a Family Attorney
Contact a family lawyer as soon as possible. Filing for child custody is a complex legal process, and it is not something you should try to handle on your own. Even a seemingly small mistake could compromise your ability to win custody.
- Schedule a Consultation
Once you have found an attorney, schedule a consultation to meet and discuss your concerns. Try to get a feel for how well the lawyer understands your situation and the law, and ask him or her as many questions as possible. This will allow the attorney to learn more about your custody battle, and he or she will be better able to explain the potential outcomes of your case.
- Follow Your Attorney’s Advice
Your lawyer will advise you on the best way to handle your child custody situation. Be sure to follow these suggestions.
Factors That Determine the Child’s Best Interests
Each child custody case is unique, but they all have one factor in common: The child’s best interests will determine the outcome. Here are a few factors that the judge will consider when awarding custody:
- Each parent’s disposition and personality;
- Each parent’s ability to raise the children;
- Each parent’s relationship with the children;
- Each parent’s employment status;
- Each parent’s mental and physical health;
- Each parent’s motive for seeking custody;
- And each parent’s willingness to encourage a positive relationship between the child and the other parent.
If you have questions about child custody, child support, asset division, maintenance or other areas of family law in New York, then contact the Elliot Green Law Offices to speak with a Queens divorce attorney. Call us today at 718-260-8668 to schedule a consultation.
