As a parent, you likely want to do everything in your power to protect your relationship with your child. This is why the outcome of your child custody arrangement is likely so crucial for you. However, things from your past may be brought up in court and may ultimately affect your opportunity for getting custody. Continue reading to learn what may hurt your chances of being granted child custody rights and how an experienced Morristown child custody lawyer at Graves Andrews, LLC can fight on your behalf.
What may hurt my chances of being granted child custody rights?
Essentially, when determining a fair and just child custody agreement, the New Jersey family court will primarily look at your and your former spouse’s parental fitness. Meaning, they will assess both your abilities and intentions toward caring for and raising your child. They may evaluate your parental fitness in any or all of the following ways:
- The New Jersey family court may conduct separate interviews of you, your former spouse, and your child.
- The New Jersey family court may conduct separate interviews of other family members, family physicians, daycare providers, etc.
- The New Jersey family court may order you and your former spouse to psychological testing.
- The New Jersey family court may order you and your former spouse to at-home observations.
- The New Jersey family court may order you and your former spouse to supply your health and academic records.
In your child custody proceedings, you must prepare for the possibility that your former spouse may bring forward claims of your history. That is, they may express to the court that you have been an unfit parent in the following ways:
- You have a history of being incarcerated.
- You have a history of being institutionalized.
- You have a history of domestic violence against your child.
- You have a history of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, while your child was in the car.
- You have a history of drug or alcohol abuse, while your child was under your care.
- You have a history of abandonment or neglect, while your child was under your care.
How can I prove that I am parentally fit?
To counter your former spouse’s claims you may want to present evidence that you have made significant life changes to become a fit parent. For example, you may show that you now have steady employment, that you have steadily cared for your child, or otherwise. You may also provide the New Jersey family court with character references from individuals close to you and your child.
If you are ready and willing to fight for your child, then you must employ a skilled Morristown family law attorney today. We look forward to working alongside you.
