How to Prepare and File for Child Custody After Divorce

We will walk you through preparing and filing for child custody. Understanding what to expect in a custody hearing and how to make the best case is important. Below are what you should know while preparing to file for child custody after divorce.

Divorce and its complexities

Trying to figure out child custody after a divorce can be daunting, but there are steps you can take to make the process easier. The first step is to try to agree on terms with your ex-spouse about custody arrangements. This process can be done through mediation, talking to a lawyer, or going through a collaborative divorce process. You can file a joint petition or submit a stipulation to the court if you cannot agree on custody arrangements.

The Importance of Planning Ahead

It is important to plan ahead for child custody if you are going through a divorce. Gathering information about finances and creating a parenting plan will help you be as prepared as possible. The better prepared you are, the better equipped you will be to navigate the child custody process.

What to Include in Your Custody Plan

Deciding which parent will have primary physical custody of your child is one of your most important decisions. With a custody plan, you will need to decide on a parenting time schedule and other important decisions about the child’s education, healthcare, and other important matters.

How to File for Child Custody

A court will grant you custody of your children if you file a petition to do so. You will need to serve your ex-spouse with the petition by hand-delivering it to them or hiring a process server. The court assumes they consent to the terms of the petition and grants you custody if they do not respond.

Lastly, custody arrangements will greatly impact your life and your child’s life. It is important to remember that child custody arrangements are not permanent, and they can be changed if one parent moves out of state or if the child spends more time away from home.