Three Crucial Mistakes People Make in Their Michigan Custody Disputes

 Posted on August 05, 2022 in Family Law

Issues related to children are some of the most bitterly contested in all of Michigan family law. Parents are under stress and often act in uncharacteristic ways, especially if the custody matters have become a proxy for the interpersonal conflict parents have with each other. When custody disputes cannot be resolved peacefully using alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation, they may head to court. Here are three major mistakes to avoid during your custody dispute. 

Talking About it on Social Media

Even if the world at large is not interested in what you have to say on social media, you can be sure that your ex will be. Anything harmful your ex sees can and will be used against you; this is also true for friends of your ex who may be interested in helping them win the case. Be wary of saying anything on social media about your case, your kids, or your ex. Do not make threats toward anyone or rant about judges or the law. Do not even post pictures of yourself going out with friends. The best practice when it comes to social media and court battles is to avoid all social media completely. 

Texting and Calling Your Ex

You can expect to get angry during your custody hearing. Your ex may say unpleasant things about you that may not even be true. While it can be tempting to reach out to your ex, especially if you have had a drink or two, stay away. Avoid talking to each other directly, especially in ways that could be easily misconstrued. Do not leave voicemails or send angry text messages. If in doubt, you can always ignore the message or call. 

Talking About the Case With Your Kids

A judge’s role in a custody case is to look at the arguments of both parents and determine the arrangement that would best suit each child’s interests. When you make your kids deal with the emotional burden of your case by talking to them about it - and especially when you badmouth your ex to your kids - a judge will question your parental fitness. Talk about your legal woes to a therapist or a trusted friend, but never to your kids. 

Speak with a Novi, MI Child Custody Lawyer

Avoid taking unnecessary risks when it comes to important matters like child custody. If you are going through a divorce or custody dispute, get help from an experienced Oakland County child custody attorney with Elkouri Heath, PLC. We will do our best to help you resolve issues outside of court and passionately represent you in court if necessary. Schedule a free consultation by calling us today at 248-344-9700.  

Source: 

https://www.courts.michigan.gov/4a7b4e/siteassets/court-administration/standardsguidelines/foc/custodyguideline.pdf