Things You'll Need:
- Detailed Records
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Step 1
First and foremost, leave the battle out of it. As a parent, you have the inherent and crucial responsibility of protecting your children from harm, including emotional harm, at all times. Whether it's obvious or not, your children are going through a difficult time as well and may even feel irrational guilt, thinking they are to blame for the divorce. During a divorce, children need constant reassurance that they have the love and support of both parents. In addition, don't drag your children into the midst of your divorce; don't air your dirty laundry in front of them and always be respectful and civil with your spouse in their presence.
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Step 2
Know your role. The court's not going to give you sole custody simply because you are the mother or the father; you have to be able to illustrate that you are the better parent. You should already play a significant role in your children's life and subsequently spend ample time with him or her and be extremely familiar with their daily routine, likes and dislikes, etc.
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Step 3
Make an effort to keep detailed records to demonstrate your involvement in your children's lives. You should be able to show in some form how much financial, emotional, and physical support you provide.
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Step 4
Focus on the positive instead of the negative. For example, instead of building your case around how unfit of a parent your spouse is, focus on your shining qualities as a parent and why and how you would provide the best environment for your children.
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Step 5
At the risk of sounding like a broken record (you've no doubt heard this over and over), hire a good, reputable divorce attorney with extensive experience handling custody cases. They can offer sound advice and help guide you through the complex family law legal system.
