Child custody is one of the most controversial aspects of divorce. A child custody evaluation is often helpful to parents who cannot agree on a custody arrangement. Arizona Courts favor custody plans that keep both parents in the child’s life, and the court may order a custody evaluation if the divorcing couple cannot find common ground. If you are facing a child custody battle, then the guidance of a family attorney may prove invaluable.
As a Chandler divorce lawyer, Steven Zachary of the Zachary Law Group, PLC can evaluate your situation and help you avoid mistakes during the divorce process. Call 480-389-3533 to schedule a consultation.
Until then, read on to learn five dos and don’ts of custody evaluations in Arizona:
Dos
- Be honest. According to the American Psychological Association, a psychologist will conduct your custody evaluation. He or she is a professional that you cannot easily fool, so tell the truth.
- Acknowledge your flaws. As a parent, you should not assume you are without flaws. No one is perfect, and nobody expects you to be. Acknowledge your flaws, but make sure you also show your strengths.
- Show willingness for dual parenting. Most children need both parents in their lives for a healthy upbringing, and encouraging a positive relationship with the other parent may work in your favor.
- Embrace flexibility. The custody situation may not work out exactly the way you want it to, so be willing to compromise. Prioritizing your child’s best interests over your own can work in your favor, according to USAttorneys.com.
- Be reliable. This is a crucial aspect of parenting. Show the evaluator that you are reliable. Be professional and prompt, complete all paperwork and provide information upon request.
Don’ts
- Do not talk about your ex negatively. Badmouthing the other parent can have emotional and mental consequences for the child. This will not impress the evaluator.
- Do not view the evaluator as your personal counselor. Do not burden him or her with your divorce concerns or it may appear that you are not in control of the situation. If you feel anxious or depressed, then consult a therapist with experience helping people who are facing divorce.
- Do not groom your children for the evaluator. A professional psychologist will notice your influence immediately. Refrain from telling your child how to interact with anyone involved in your divorce.
- Do not become disorganized. If you provide requested information that is late or incomplete, then you may appear too disorganized to win primary physical custody.
- Do not try to befriend the evaluator in an attempt to get him or her on your side. He or she is only interested in your child’s well-being and such tactics may make you appear unwilling to compromise.
If you have child custody concerns, contact the Zachary Law Group, PLC. Mr. Zachary is a Chandler family attorney who can protect your personal and financial interests.
Unlike other divorce attorneys who charge by the hour, we offer flat-rate fees with no hidden charges. If you would like to schedule a consultation, call 480-389-3533.
