Concerned About The Custody Of Your Child? Use This Pre-Divorce Checklist For Dads
Posted on: 1 September 2016
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The idea of losing custody or having to pay child support for either parent can be a huge factor in reactions, actions, and even how the whole divorce process plays out when a marriage is coming to an end. As a dad who is concerned about your significant other taking full custody of your child, there is no doubt you will want to do all you can to ensure you have just as many rights to your child as your spouse. Here is a basic checklist to follow before the divorce is filed that can help keep you and the child's other parent on a level playing field through the divorce where custody is concerned.
Make sure you have significant proof that you have played an active role in the child's life.
One of the most common reasons a mother will try to claim she has more rights to the child than the father is if she has been the primary caregiver or if she feels she has been the more involved parent overall. While the judge will take both parents' statements into consideration, it will help if you have proof that you have remained fully involved as a dad. A few examples of proof of your involvement would be:
- pictures of you with your child during everything from special events to time spent around the house
- signed statements from friends and family members who have witnessed your involvement as a father
- receipts proving your purchases of things the child needs, such as clothing and school supplies
Get to know your child's healthcare needs.
If you have always allowed your spouse to handle things like dental checkups and doctor's visits, before the divorce is the best time to start being more involved. Take the initiative to schedule appointments and be the parent who takes the child to visits, learn more about things like allergies your child has or special health needs, and make sure your child's healthcare providers know who you are.
Become involved in your child's education.
Going to PTA meetings, attending school sporting events and afterschool activities, and even helping with your child's homework are all ways that you can be more involved with your child's education. Through the divorce, your knowledge of your child's education and obvious involvement will prove to the judge that you are competent where school matters are concerned, and this goes a long way in proving you are a capable parent.
For additional advice, contact a divorce lawyer who specializes in fathers' rights.