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It’s a common misconception that child custody proceedings favor mothers. In reality, judges aim to prioritize the best interests of the children involved. While that usually means ordering an arrangement in which the children retain some kind of relationship with both parents, it’s not a given that fathers will secure joint or sole custody. If you’re concerned about your rights as a dad, here are a few tips for strengthening your case.

How Fathers Can Improve Their Chances of Securing Child Custody

1. Provide Kid-Friendly Living Arrangements

If you’ll be the one moving out of the family home, ensure the new space has enough room for your children.

A judge may not be inclined to award you joint custody or even overnight visits if you can’t provide the kids with adequate accommodations. It’s also wise to look for a property in the children’s current school district so they won’t have to change schools after moving in with you. 

2. Maintain a Close Relationship 

child custodyWhile your custody case is pending, you’ll have to abide by a temporary arrangement. Regardless of its terms, try to spend as much time with your kids as possible.

Even on nights when you don’t have them, for example, you can still attend their sports games or recitals. You should also go to all doctor’s appointments and parent/teacher conferences. Document each excursion so the court can see that you’re a committed and involved father. 

3. Demonstrate Financial Stability 

Quitting your job before fighting for custody is inadvisable. The court will scrutinize your finances throughout the proceedings, checking that you’re stable enough to provide a good home.

If you make considerably less than your spouse, don’t worry. The judge won’t hold that against you as long as you’re not purposefully underemployed to minimize child support obligations. The court simply wants to see that you can maintain a steady job—assuming you don’t have a disability that affects your employment—so you can provide for your children.

 

For help with child custody battles, turn to John D. Wieser, Esq., PC. With offices in Buffalo and Rochester, NY, this strategic attorney will advocate for your rights at every stage of the proceedings. Since 2001, he’s been helping clients achieve favorable outcomes in several family law matters. To learn more about his practice areas, visit his website. To request a consultation, call (585) 328-0660. 

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