Getting through divorce is difficult, especially when children are involved. Knowing that you can potentially lose your child is a scary feeling. However, with the help of some advance planning, you can present a convincing case and win full custody of your child. 

If you did not know, there are a number of things you can do before your child custody hearing that will affect the results. Therefore, it is critical to do your research and understand what the court will be looking at. Nevertheless, a divorce lawyer in Newburyport can provide legal guidance like no other. 

Preparing for your child custody hearing

  • Understand child custody laws. 

Child custody laws differ between states. You must familiarize yourself with the state’s laws where your child custody hearing is scheduled to be held. You can find the laws on the Internet or ask your attorney to provide you with a printed copy of the same. Reading huge paragraphs can be tedious, but it is important. 

  • Be a good parent. 

The court gives priority to children’s best interests in divorce cases. You must keep your emotions of anger and resentment towards your ex-spouse aside and do your best to demonstrate yourself as a responsible parent. To make sure you get full custody of your child, you must prove to the judge that you are a better parent than the other party. 

  • Bring important documents to your attorney. 

Legal matters require a lot of documentation. You must closely work with your attorney to determine which documents to file with the court and which to bring to the hearing. Attorneys often recommend creating a log of the following details. 

  • Time you spend with your child,
  • How long your child speaks to the other parent while they are with you,
  • Visitation schedule,
  • Child-support payments, if any, and
  • Other records as requested by your personal attorney. 

  • Learn courtroom etiquette. 

Remember that the judge and the jury are the people who make the final decision in court. Therefore, your goal should be to keep them pleased. Learning courtroom etiquette involves understanding what is expected of you inside the courtroom and which behaviors you may need to avoid. Upsetting the jury with your acts can have adverse effects. 

  • Wear proper courtroom attire. 

While courtrooms are not about judging people based on their clothes and appearances, it still helps to make a good first impression. Make sure you shower and dress professionally. Attires that are formal and conservative may work the best. 

Nobody wants to lose their child, especially to their ex-spouse. You can speak with your attorney regarding your situation. Understandably, you are going through a lot right now. Let an attorney take the burden off you while you take some time to rest.