Family problems are inevitable. Sometimes, you don’t even see them coming. After getting into a relationship or even getting married, you look forward to growing old together, but that does not always happen. You may grow apart from your partner for several reasons. Worse, you may need to part ways. If you do not have kids with your partner, a separation or divorce is usually smoother than when kids are involved.
Then child custody issues begin to set in. In a few cases, couples find it easy to solve their child custody issues amicably. The majority of exes, however, end up in custody battles which can get ugly at times. In such a case, you will need to hire a professional custody lawyer. Hiring an experienced lawyer like a sugar land child custody lawyer will help you navigate the murky and complex waters of child custody—but how do you know when you need a professional hand? Below are some pointers.
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Your ex has already hired one
Fighting for child custody on your own when you are against a legal professional is almost always a losing battle. If your ex is paying a professional to help them win a custody case, you will inevitably be forced to do the same. If you cannot afford an attorney, at least find some free legal representation where you live. A good lawyer can help you present yourself as the best custodian for your child or children, assist you in preparing crucial evidence, and also aid in closing gaps that would have ruined your chances of winning the custody case.
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You live in different jurisdictions with your ex-partner
If you and your former spouse live in different states or countries, it is important to seek legal representation with your child custody. Usually, there are different laws for different states and the case is worse beyond the borders of a country. Having a lawyer who understands the requirement in different jurisdictions could make the difference between winning and losing a case.
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Your spouse is unfit to be the custodian
If your ex is a toxic, rogue, or dangerous person and you have every good reason to believe that your children will be unsafe with him or her, you should hire a lawyer to help you with the case. This is especially true if your children have suffered before in the hands of your former spouse. If you worry about the welfare of your kids, share your concerns with a lawyer so that they can build a robust case for you.
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Your ex will do anything to keep you from seeing your kids
Some spouses may try to punish you by keeping you away from your kids and they will stop at nothing. They will go as far as telling lies or framing you to tarnish your name. If your ex is a difficult person, arm yourself with some solid legal representation.
Ultimately, when the circumstances of a custody case begin to get too complicated, representing yourself may not be adequate. Hire a suitable attorney.