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What Not to Do in Child Custody Cases in New Jersey

Raising children is difficult, especially when the parents are in the process of divorcing. Child custody cases take a toll on all involved, making each party prone to making mistakes. If you need to learn more about what not to do in child custody cases in New Jersey, please read on, then contact an experienced Ocean County child custody attorney to discuss your next steps.

What not to do in child custody cases in New Jersey

A large number of behaviors or actions can have severe repercussions in your child custody proceedings. New Jersey’s child custody laws aim to promote the best interests of the children. As far as the court sees things, the ideal situation is when both parents cooperate. The following are the most common mistakes to avoid during New Jersey child custody proceedings:

  • Failing to exhibit emotional control
  • Not making parental responsibilities a priority
  • Leaving harmful evidence (negative text messages, photographs, emails, etc.) behind
  • Not supporting the other parent

What are the most costly mistakes in time-sharing custody cases in New Jersey?

Until the child turns 18, child custody cases never really end. In New Jersey, even the firmest decisions are not set in stone. Mistakes in time-sharing can still cost a parent dearly. Engaging in domestic violence, alcohol or drug abuse, unilaterally controlling the time-sharing schedule without justification, relocating without the permission of the court and filing false DCF reports can all lead to the court altering the child custody arrangement. Each demonstrates uncooperative behavior between one or both of the parents. Furthermore, New Jersey family courts are not concerned with whatever is most convenient with either parent. As previously stated, they are concerned with promoting the best interests of the children.

How can I fight an unfair child custody arrangement in New Jersey?

To compensate for changes, New Jersey law allows parties to petition for the modification of custody. For a court to grant a modification of the time-sharing arrangement, the petitioning parent must provide evidence of a substantial, material and unforeseeable change in circumstances. It’s not sufficient that the child wants the change. The court will likely consider the child’s wishes, but may not give those wishes much deference. You will need a skilled Ocean County family law attorney to help you avoid the most common child custody mistakes in New Jersey. Only qualified legal representation can fight for the most equitable outcome.

If you have any further questions about child custody, or the often-intertwined topic of child support, feel free to read our guide, “Everything You Need to Know About Child Support in New Jersey” and contact our firm today.

Contact our experienced Ocean City firm

Matters of divorce and family law require the attention and skill of an experienced attorney who will fight for your future. Not only is your financial well-being at stake, but in a divorce, both you and your children’s emotional well-being are at risk as well. If you need a divorce and family law attorney in Ocean County, New Jersey, please do not hesitate to contact the Law Office of Sarina Gianna, LLC today to schedule a consultation.