How to Get Shared Custody of Your Child
Unlike some states, New York doesn’t automatically default on 50/50 custody arrangements. Instead, the courts evaluate custody matters on the basis of the best interests of the child. New York judges will carefully evaluate multiple factors when determining the appropriate custody plan for each family. In this article, the Law Office of Robert S. Sunshine will discuss how parents should prepare for a custody hearing when attempting to secure joint custody of their child.
#1. Document your parental involvement
Documentation is a crucial part of all custody proceedings. You can show the court how much you care about your children by creating a detailed narrative of your parental engagement. Courts like to see that parents have a meaningful consistent presence in their child’s life. This involves actively participating in their lives, attending school events, maintaining their physical and emotional health, and demonstrating consistent support through consistent actions.
#2. Develop a parenting plan
You’ll want to develop a parenting plan as your guide to shared custody. This document should be more than just a schedule of when the child will visit each parent. It also shows your ability to collaborate with your co-parent and prioritize your child’s needs.
Your plan should include living arrangements, visitation schedules, time-sharing for the holidays, methods of communication, and a clear framework for making important decisions concerning the child.
#3. Show stability and cooperation
When it comes to making decisions, courts prioritize the best interests of the children—not necessarily what the child or the parents want. You will want to present yourself as stable, emotionally regulated, and financially responsible. Your goal is to show the court that you can provide a consistently supportive home environment.
It’s also important to show the court that you can co-parent effectively with your former spouse. This means maintaining a respectful relationship with the child’s other parent.
#4. Prepare for legal proceedings
Your divorce attorney’s job is to present you to the court in the most flattering possible way. The Law Offices of Robert S. Sunshine will guide you through the custody proceedings and develop a comprehensive strategy that addresses potential challenges and shows your commitment to your child’s maturation and growth.
#5. Overcoming potential challenges
The Law Office of Robert S. Sunshine will take a proactive approach in addressing potential challenges. We will help you prepare your documentation, develop strong character references, and create a compelling story that demonstrates your ability to co-parent effectively.
The bottom line
The courts make all decisions based on what will ensure the child’s happiness and well-being. When it comes to shared custody arrangements, it’s not about winning against the other parent, but demonstrating that you can effectively co-parent with a person you likely have strong emotions for. The attorneys at the Law Office of Robert S. Sunshine will present you in the best possible light to ensure a reasonable solution to the issue of custody. Call our office today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin addressing your concerns right away.
