Most parents have a deep bond with their child that no one wants to see strained. However, hurdles such as divorce alter family dynamics, especially when child custody cases arise.
Worrying about the proceedings or outcome is normal but can make focusing on legal tasks harder. Delve into five ways to reduce the stress of a child custody case.
Hire a Knowledgeable Attorney
Finding the right attorney requires research and meetings. Begin your search by investigating family law attorneys in your state.
Then, read through their service pages and reviews. Note any options you feel would be a good fit so you can schedule a consultation with them.
As you schedule meetings with different law firms, create a list of questions, including these:
- How often do you achieve client goals?
- How will you reach out to me with information?
The more you know about an attorney, the easier it is to determine if they fit your needs.
Listen to Your Lawyer
Once you hire a legal professional, listen to their advice. They’ll inform you about the documents you need and advise on how you should behave in court.
Acting disrespectfully or refusing to cooperate with the court ruling can leave you with legal charges such as Contempt of Court.
This is the last thing you want, as Contempt of Court charges can hinder child custody, which can add to your stress regarding the case.
Put Your Child First
Throughout the case, try to keep your focus on what’s best for your child by making compromises and being flexible with your ex. Your child’s well-being should be the top priority, so aim to make decisions that will benefit them.
Remaining focused on your child and the present moment allows for a smoother process, which can often mean less stress.
Pro Tip
Have open, age-appropriate conversations with your child regarding their feelings on the case. It’s normal for kids to feel anxious that their future will change as the custody case proceeds.
Take Care of Yourself
Self-care comes in numerous forms, including exercise, yoga, spending time with loved ones, and therapy. Consider which types of self-care best help you alleviate stress and make it a part of your day.
For example, if you love reading, enjoy an entertaining book a few minutes before bed to take your mind off the custody case.
Follow Your Legal Plan
Generally, parents must provide specific documents, such as financial and medical records, for their child during custody cases. You may also need to contact your child’s teachers, coaches, and other adults for testimonies about your abilities as a parent. All states have different protocols, so consult your attorney on what you’ll need.
When you have a plan, gathering all the needed paperwork and contacting key individuals becomes easier. Your plan should also detail when you need to complete each task.
A child custody case can be an emotionally taxing experience, but the more you prepare, the easier it is to reduce stress.
