Maintaining Civility in Custody Proceedings

Divorce is ugly. The same goes for child custody battles that may extend far beyond a divorce actions, or take place outside of a divorce entirely. Oftentimes these experiences are some of the most challenging and taxing times of our clients’ lives, and as such, we understand that emotions often run high. However, we consistently remind our clients not to let their emotions get the best of them and act in their own best interests at all times.

While maintaining civility during all court proceedings is certainly advisable, this is never more pertinent than during cases where the care and custody of children is at issue. This is true for several reasons. First, we care about our clients and their families, and know how difficult and painful it is for children to be caught in the middle of their parents’ courtroom battles. Secondly, and just as significantly, family courts expect parents to not only remain civil, but be supportive of one another and maintain every effort to co-parent their children peacefully until the minor kids reach the age of majority.

Indeed, one of the “best interest” factors that courts consider when making custody and parenting time decisions regards the willingness of a parent to “foster” and support a “close and continuing relationship” with the other parent. For this reason and several others discussed above, we encourage our clients to rise above a contentious situation whenever possible, and act in a manner which the court would commend instead of reprimand. Calling the police on another parent, for example, is more often than not notadvisable, unless a true emergency or dangerous situation arises. And above all else, we encourage parents to never speak badly about the other parent in front of their children, and similarly to allow anyone else to do so in their presence. 

Family matters that require the court’s involvement or intervention are difficult. Having the right attorney by your side can make the process much less burdensome!

Call The Law Offices of Joumana Kayrouz today to schedule your free consultation should you have questions about a pending custody proceeding or any other family law issue. We’re here to help and above all else, want the best for your family.