One of the most contentious feelings in a marriage is that between spouses who may be battling over custody, which can also be one of the most difficult come divorce time. In Ottawa, being aware of how the law as a framework works and familiar with what lies ahead can be very beneficial. In this blog, you will get an overview of custody battles dealt with by Ottawa Family Lawyer, how to prepare for them, and what happens next.
Knowing the Ottawa Custody Laws
In Ottawa, the courts typically favor what is in the best interests of your children when making decisions regarding custody. The child’s preference to be with one parent or the other, factors in which parent is best able to meet your kid’s needs and how strong ties are between each parent and the child. These arrangements will either be joint (both parents share responsibilities) or sole (one parent has primary responsibility).
Before You Go to Family Court
To win custody, one must always be prepared so that a strong case can rest before the court. What You Need to Prepare:
Gather Documentation
Gather all documents that will help your case This involves your financial history indicating you have the means to support yourself. You need to retain communication records between both parties and some of the most common are emails, and text messages related to child care or custody.
Develop a Parenting Plan
Another important step is developing a detailed parenting plan. Establish a very detailed schedule of custody detailing when the child will be with which parent. Determine the process of decision-making as relates to major areas in a child’s life. Define a communication plan of how you as well and your ex-spouse will be keeping in touch to discuss parenting issues
Build a Support Network
When in the middle of a custody battle, things can become stressful and emotional; therefore is important to have people around you that provide love and compassion. You need to hire one of the best-experienced family lawyers in Ottawa that deals with custody cases and can advise you on what happens during your case.
The Custody Battle Ahead
Knowing the details about custody and what to expect can ease your anxiety while making sure you are ready:
Mediation and Negotiation
Most custody disputes are resolved using mediation (an informal process where a neutral third party helps parents negotiate an agreement). If mediation is not successful, lawyer-to-lawyer negotiations frequently result in a settlement without the need for an entire courtroom trial. These are both designed to promote cooperation and develop an amicable resolution for the care of the child.
Court Proceedings
If the matter cannot be resolved through mediation/negotiation, you may have to file a custody petition in court. Get ready for a series of court dates with both parties telling their side. You will have to provide evidence that you are related to the child and able to care for them, as well. The court will take into consideration a variety of factors, such as the age and health of the child; the emotional bonds that exist between each parent and their children; and which spouse or separate party is better able to address all aspects necessary for meeting every unique need demonstrated buy an individual offspring. The ultimate goal is to do what’s best for the child.
Ottawa Custody battles can be a tough and emotionally overwhelming process. While that may be true, with proper preparation and a clear vision of your game plan it is within reach and frankly in the best interests of a child to have their contested adoption conclude as quickly as possible so they can be thriving.
