4 Things Can Be Used Against You in a Child Custody Battle

Whether you're going through divorce or separating from your partner who is also the other parent of your children, the process can really be tough on everyone involved. 

As far as the court might be concerned, everything you do or say inside and outside the courtroom can be used for or against you during the custody battle. 

Therefore, you must understand the things that can be used against you in the custody battle. While a good law firm, like Bardley McKnight Law, will tell you everything you need to know, here are some key mistakes people make that haunt them later. 

Verbal and Physical Exchanges

With a difficult split, the tempers can get high really fast, leading to a loud exchange of hurtful words. Even if you are trying to protect your pride or get things off your chest, it might not look good in the courtroom. 

These verbal matches can cause even more trouble for you if your children are nearby. But the most problematic situation might be physical altercations with your partner, especially when they have proof and visible injuries. 

Bringing In New Partners In Front Of Your Kids

No matter the reasons for your divorce, or if the other parent already has begun looking around the dating pool, you should avoid seeing new people altogether until the child custody issues are resolved. 

Whether it's one night stands or dating someone who you could really fall for, it's best to avoid for now. 

The reason is that introducing romantic partners to your kids can lead to negative feelings and possible hatred for you, as they might blame you for the separation. Remember, they will most probably be interviewed and asked who they prefer.

This situation can also cause tensions with your ex. 

Disregarding Support Payments or Other Responsibilities

Whether settled inside or outside the courtroom, you need to keep making any child or spousal support payments while the child custody or divorce proceedings are ongoing.

If you miss court-ordered payments, you may be held in contempt for not following the court's order –leading to other legal complications. 

Either way, missing these payments might show the court that you are unable to provide. If you show a healthy bank statement there, then you may be regarded as uncaring or someone who doesn't have their kids' best interests at heart. 

Keeping Your Kids Away From the Other Parent

Unless the court has given any temporary rulings that say otherwise, you cannot prevent the other parent from seeing the children. 

If you keep your kids away and not allow the other parent to see your kids, even though they have the right, you can be held in contempt. That can even result in additional legal complications against you, possibly criminal. 

If you do have a reasonable concern to not allow the other parent any visitation rights, you need to tell your child custody lawyer immediately. They will ask the judge about it at the beginning of the proceedings.