It is important that you understand how to protect your parental rights so that you can ensure your child’s custody arrangements are made appropriately. Continue reading and reach out to our firm today to speak with our Monmouth County child custody attorneys today.
How can I protect my parental rights in New Jersey?
1. Speak to an attorney.
Being assertive with your situation can help ensure that all the bases are covered when building your court case. Even before the case has started, you can plan a meeting with an attorney to discuss your situation. An attorney will be able to assess your state’s child custody laws and can let you know whether your parental rights are being infringed. Additionally, they can inform you on what not to do if you want custody.
2. Talk with your spouse.
Even if you have a strained relationship, you will have to determine how to work together as parents. Make time to discuss how things will change after one parent leaves the family home. Try to arrange a temporary visitation schedule so you do not have to schedule visits on short notice. This may even begin settling the custody issues in your case.
3. Prioritize your child.
Going through a divorce gives you a lot to worry about. With finances, property, and custody issues, it is important that staying involved in your child’s life is critical for your child to be able to manage the divorce. Additionally, when you go to court, you will need to show that you are capable of parenting.
4. Be sensitive to your child’s feelings.
You will want to understand that a child’s preference is a significant factor in many states, and it is common for judges or other professionals to speak with children during the custody court process. Because of this, you will want to be sure that your child sees you as the parent they want to spend time with.
To begin, you will want to avoid mentioning the divorce to your child until you are sure it will happen. Telling them you are divorcing, then reconciling, then divorcing anyway could induce anxiety, confusion, and distrust. Furthermore, avoid provoking fights and making negative comments about the other parent.
7. Determine your ideal parenting arrangement.
You will need a parenting plan whether you go to court or come to a compromise with the other parent. In your plan, you will need to specify when and how often you feel each parent should see the kids normally, during holidays, and for vacation time. You could also incorporate details about how the child will get between parents’ places.
To learn more, reach out to our firm today and speak with one of our skilled Woodbridge and Red Bank divorce attorneys.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED NEW JERSEY FIRM
If you require strong legal representation for matters of divorce and family law in Rumson, Monmouth County, or anywhere in New Jersey, contact The Law Offices of Paone, Zaleski & Murphy to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys today.
