What Can Be Used Against You in a Custody Battle?
If you’re involved in a custody battle, you’re going to want to present yourself in the best possible light to maximize your chances of success. With that in mind, you may be wondering what, if anything, can be used against you in court. Here are just a few examples of what can be used against you in a custody battle:
- Yelling at your child or your child’s other parent
- Assaulting your child or your child’s other parent
- Saying negative things about your child’s other parent to or around your child
- Refusing to let your child speak to the other parent when he or she is in your care
- Taking your child out of school or out of the area without notifying the other parent ahead of time
- Failing to pay child support
- Failing to honor visitation agreements
- Moving in with a new significant other, or even introducing your child to a new significant other
- Behaving inappropriately during the court proceedings
Above all else, remember that when determining custody and visitation, Florida courts are required to consider what is in the child’s best interests. Indeed, according to Florida Statute 61.13(3), “the best interest of the child shall be the primary consideration.” So, before speaking or acting, consider whether the court will view your words or actions as being in your child’s best interests.
Legal Representation for Clients in the Greater Tampa Bay Area
The attorneys at the Law Offices of Audrey A. Jefferis, P.A., have extensive experience handling custody battles for clients in Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Hernando Counties, and we’d be honored to represent you during this trying time. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at our main office in New Port Richey or our satellite office in Palm Harbor.