HOW CAN FATHERS IMPROVE THEIR CHANCES OF RECEIVING FULL OR PARTIAL CUSTODY?

Studies have shown that positive fathers are vital to their children’s moral and social growth. It’s only natural that fathers want to fight in court to ensure they are involved in their children’s lives as much as possible. In Michigan, courts now view both fathers and mothers as equals when it comes to raising children. Courts determine which parent receives full custody based on the best interest of the child. For fathers who want to improve their changes at receiving full or partial custody, you must first understand how the court decides the fate of the child.

Judges want what is best for the child, so they typically will send them with a parent who best demonstrates they live in a stable environment. The court will consider twelve best interest factors when they determine child custody. A few factors include “the love, affection and other emotional ties between the parents and the child; the moral fitness of the parties involved; the home, school and community record of the child.”

Looking at some of the best interest factors, fathers can increase their chances of receiving full custody by proving to the judge that they have the qualities to provide a stable and affection-filled life for their child. If you’re a father, you should show how you’re actively involved in your child’s life. This means you should go to parent teacher conferences, help them with homework and school projects, sign them up for activities or camps, go to all their sports games, and maybe even volunteer to drive them and their friends around on the weekend. When a child is involved in activities, it shows stability in their life because they have a schedule. Establishing this stable routine will be sure to persuade the judge. Make sure you document your schedule as well as your child’s as proof for the court.

If the judge has any court orders regarding your child, be sure to obey it and follow all the laws. You want to prove that you obey orders and take your child’s life seriously. Be sure to learn the family law system so that you do not make any legal mistakes.

If you’re a father whose worried about losing custody of your children, the attorneys at Bailey Smith & Bailey can help. We specialize in protecting the rights of fathers, so contact today to request a consultation with a child support attorney who is ready to fight for the best outcome for you and your children.