If you need help to maintain custody of your child, please read on, then contact an experienced Bergen County, New Jersey child custody lawyer to learn what you should not do during a child custody case in New Jersey.
What could damage your child custody case in New Jersey?
The list of things that will get you deemed unfit is long and varied, but the following are some of the most common:
- Engaging in criminal behavior, especially in the presence of children
- Using illegal drugs, especially in the presence of children
- Abusing your child or significant other
- Having an unsafe living environment
- Withholding the child from his or her other legal parent, siblings or extended family
- Disrupting or discontinuing the child’s education or community life
- Neglecting the child’s daily physical, emotional, developmental, educational and special needs
- Creating conflict, and/or inability to cooperate with the other parent
What do New Jersey judges consider in a child custody case?
Judges in the Garden State will factor in the child’s age, gender, characteristics and background as they decide on custody. The judge will want to ensure that the child will be safe from any possible harm and the parent has the ability to meet the needs of the child. That said, you should do everything to prove you are a fit parent by New Jersey standards. You must show that you will be able to feed, clothe and shelter the child as well as prevent any undue stress or pain to him or her. Nobody is perfect, but you must demonstrate that you place the child’s best interests above and before your own.
Why do you need a Bergen County family law attorney?
Strictly speaking, you do not need a lawyer in order to pursue your child custody case, but you would be well advised to do so. A host of factors will play into the judge’s decision. To be fully apprised of the most likely considerations, you should reach out to a skilled New Jersey divorce lawyer to discuss your next steps. Taken out of proper context, anyone might be deemed an unfit parent. A qualified attorney will be able to help you provide the necessary context. Furthermore, he or she will draft, collect, compile and present the evidence needed to prove your case in court. There is too much at stake to tackle this process on your own, so please give us a call today.
Contact Our Experienced Bergen County Firm
If you are facing any family law matter, contact HD Family Law today to schedule your initial consultation.
