Child custody is one of those issues that causes so much conflict in divorce. Parents get so caught up with fighting with each other over money and possessions, and then they want to fight over who gets the children. When both parties can agree to approach the idea of which is the best household for the child with the best interest of the child in mind, then there will be less conflict.

If you are reading this, chances are you care deeply about your child and you want what is best for them. Here are a few tips that will improve your chances of getting custody, however there are never any guarantees.

1. Provide a safe home environment that is appropriate to your child’s needs. Children’s need for space changes as they grow older. Girls and boys need to sleep in separate rooms and they need space to play and do their homework. Having a less than adequate living situation could be used against you especially if the other parent has considerably better accommodations.

2. Prove that being a good parent is a top priority in your life. You demonstrate your intention to be a good parent by the lifestyle choices that you make. Divorce is between two adults, but kids also pay a price. You must be willing to make some sacrifices for the good of your children as they adjust to life after divorce and into the future. Keeping the same job and maintaining a stable routine offers a favorable impression to the court.

3. Be involved in your child’s life. Pop quiz: Can you name your child’s teacher, their doctor, and all their extracurricular activities? If not, then you have some catching up to do. Do you know your child’s friends? How many times have you chaperoned for a field trip or volunteered to help with a school activity? Make sure you’re making an effort to be involved.

4. Make sure your employer understands your needs and concerns. We know that not everyone has a nine-to-five job – but stability is key. Sit down with your boss or manager and explain what your responsibilities are as a parent. Accommodations can be made in most cases to ensure that you are available for your children.

5. Do not cohabitate with a new partner right away. If your desire is to show the court that you can provide a safe, stable environment for the child, don’t invite the new beau to live with you right away. Introduce him or her to your children only when it is appropriate – and certainly not before the divorce is final.

6. Hire the best family law attorney you can afford. A competent Nashville family law attorney not only knows the law, but has the hard-won experience from working one on one with divorcing parents involved in custody disputes. We know how to help people move beyond conflict and work toward co-parenting with their ex in the best interest of the children.

If you can be willing to put your child’s needs first whether you get primary residential custody or not, you will be serving your child well.

If you are facing a child custody dispute, Miller Upshaw Family Law, PLLC will be your advocate and protect your rights and keep the child’s best interests in mind always. Contact us today at 615-391-4200 to schedule an in-person or video consultation with an experienced Nashville divorce attorney.