Parents in Nebraska know that family dynamics can never be fully understood by a family court judge. However, if you are involved in a child custody dispute, you need to help the judge understand as much about your relationship with your child as possible. That means documenting absolutely everything that proves you are an active and involved parent.
Written submissions to the court
If you begin the child custody proceedings, you will be required to complete a written submission to the court. In this document, you should clearly and concisely lay out your position on child custody and how you want the existing order to change.
When you make your arguments, each one should be supported with documentation. A judge will not just take your word for it that you are a good parent. You’ll need to include tangible evidence or testimony from sources that back you up.
Documented visitation schedules
You should remember to document the current visitation schedule as it plays out. If you and your ex have a casual agreement, write down exactly how often you are with your child. Include notes about instances that your ex might have asked you to take your child for extra time.
Your child’s school and sports records
Keeping thorough records of your child’s school and sports achievements can help to demonstrate that you are an involved parent. Including written statements from teachers, sports coaches and other people familiar with you and your child may also help your case.
Consider requesting a custody evaluation
In very contentious child custody cases, the court will sometimes order an official custody evaluation. While one is not always necessary, it may work to your benefit to make a request to have one performed.
