In a divorce situation where children are involved, custody issues can take a toll on the entire family. While the parents are choosing to no longer remain in a relationship with one another, they are (usually) very much involved with their children and desire to keep strong ties with them through involvement in their daily activities and routines. In these cases, having an experienced legal team is key, since lawyers on both sides can evaluate the family’s unique circumstances and determine exactly what setup is best for each parent and for the children.
However, some divorce cases involve a parent that is requesting sole custody of their child(ren). Occasionally this happens only to cause pain and suffering for their former spouse, but many times it is truly out of concern of their children and is for their best interest in mind. In these situations, an attorney will help counsel the parent requesting custody on how to maintain a lifestyle that will best reflect their responsibility and ability to handle the sole custody status they desire.
So, what factors might go into determining a parent being the primary caregiver of their children post-divorce?
- History. If a family’s documented history shows a continued cycle of harmful behavior from the other parent, their lack of involvement in the lives of their child(ren), or other issues that a judge would see as a negative influence, they will likely be denied custody. In this same way though, the parent who desires sole custody must show a history of being a supportive, loving parent, and evidence that they are actively involved in every aspect of the child’s life.
- Stability. A key point in determining if one parent or the other deserves sole custody is the stability of life they can offer the child(ren). A steady job and income, suitable housing and home environment, proper nutrition and medical care, etc. are all important in making sure children are taken care of in the best way possible. If one parent can provide this, but the other can not, a judge will likely rule in favor of putting the children in the more stable environment.
- Legal representation. Sometimes it really does come down to who one has standing in their corner. In a custody battle, even a less fit parent could end up earning partial custody with their children, due entirely to their representation in court. Choosing a lawyer that is experienced in family law, and is prepared to stand alongside their client through the long process of winning custody of their kids is vital to the end result and sought-after outcome.
If you are preparing for a custody case, and are seeking representation in the greater Tampa Bay area, Sessums Law Group is here for you. We are experienced in all aspects of family law, and our goal is to support you in making sure your children are in the best situation possible. During these uncertain times, it’s nice to know you can count on us to take your case personally and fight for you in and out of the courtroom. We know you never expect to end up fighting for the right to parent your children, but when the unexpected happens, WE STAND FOR YOU!