Preparing for a Child Custody Hearing

Attending your first child custody hearing can be intimidating, especially when you don't know what to expect. Beyond making a parenting plan (which should include a custody schedule), many parents don't know what to do. Here's how else you can prepare for that important day.

Get familiar with the law

Learn as much as you can about child custody laws in your location so you'll understand what's happening. It will also help you when preparing a parenting plan because you'll have a sense of what the judge will expect to see.

Gather evidence

Your lawyer can help you determine what would be the best child custody evidence to bring with you. Common items include a parenting journal, your children's medical documents, and statements from witnesses such as teachers or doctors.

Polish your appearance and etiquette

Practice delivering short but complete answers to questions. Make sure you are neatly groomed and that your clothes make you look like you're taking the case seriously. Wear clothing you would to a job interview or business meeting. Above all, keep your emotions under control and act respectfully.

Know what to expect

When you understand the process of a custody hearing, you'll feel more confident. Courtrooms are usually smaller than people expect and hearings are fairly short. During a hearing, the judge may ask you, the other parent, the lawyers and any witnesses to speak. The judge will render a decision based on the children's best interests.

Staying organized

The process of deciding custody requires serious organization. You may need to create a parenting plan, draft multiple custody schedules, calculate expenses and beyond.

The Custody X Change online app enables you to do all of that in one place.

With a parenting plan template, customizable custody calendars, an expense tracker and more, Custody X Change makes sure you're prepared for whatever arises in your journey to child custody.

You can customize this to fit your situation with Custody X Change.

Take advantage of our technology to stay on top of all the moving parts of your case.