Your Legal Rights at Work

4 Problems Your Lawyer Needs To Know About Before Your Child Custody Hearing

by Lewis Hamilton

If you are in the process of fighting for custody of your child, then it's important to sit down and tell your lawyer all of the facts that are relevant to your case. Even though there are some things that you might rather keep private, you do need to tell your lawyer all of these things and anything else that might be relevant to your case. Otherwise, you could risk not getting custody of your little one.

1. You're Planning on Moving Far Away

You might think that it's your personal business if you want to move far away, but your child's other parent might complain if you are planning on taking the child out of state. Therefore, your lawyer will need to know about any future plans so that they can be a part of the custody agreement.

2. You've Had a Substance Abuse Addiction in the Past

If you have ever battled an addiction to drugs or alcohol, then your lawyer needs to know about it. There's a chance that your child's other parent might bring it up when you go to court, so you need to be ready. For example, you might have to show proof that you have gone through rehabilitation, or you might be required to pass drug tests in order to gain and keep custody of your child.

3. You Have a Criminal Record

If your ex or his or her lawyer knows about your criminal record, then there's a strong chance that it will be brought up in court. Even if you got in trouble before your child was born, your lawyer needs to know about it so that he or she can defend you in court.

4. Your Home Isn't in the Best Condition

Your child's other parent might argue and say that your home is not fit for your child if you don't have basic things, such as a stove and refrigerator or furniture. A home that is in a dangerous area or that is otherwise unstable can also look bad in court. Your lawyer can help you determine if your home is fit for a child and can help you make improvements to help ensure that you gain custody, such as by giving you advice about how to improve your home and fighting in your defense in the court room.

Although it might be tough to talk about these things with your lawyer, he or she needs to know as much about your case as possible. Then, your lawyer can help you determine the best way to get over these problems, and you won't have to worry about being blindsided if your ex brings up the situation in court. To find out more information, contact a business like Thomas & Associates, PC.

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