Divorce is hard, especially with children to consider. One of the worst things about dealing with divorce is child custody disputes, especially if they end up turning ugly. If you were never married to the other parent, then child custody can be even more stressful. Because of this, it's essential to have a legal professional on your side. That's why it's always a good idea to get a child custody lawyer to try to handle things going as smoothly as possible. Here are five things a child custody attorney can do for you.

1. Help You Understand Your Rights

When dealing with legal procedures, such as a divorce or child custody, you need to know as much about your rights as possible. A child custody lawyer can explain the laws and regulations that apply to your situation, such as the best interests of the child, the types of custody arrangements, and the factors that courts consider when making custody decisions. It's also important to know how child custody rights may change based on the state that you're in. Dealing with child custody concerns can be an emotional time for both parents. It's essential to keep your mind focused on the law, so you avoid making any mistakes that can be held against you in the court system. A child custody lawyer is there to help keep you on the straight and narrow so you not only understand your rights but don't do anything that can result in your rights being removed.

2. Facilitate Mediation

With a legal professional on your side, you have a better chance of reaching a mediation agreement. Mediation is a voluntary process that both parties can undertake in which you communicate your needs and preferences without having to go through a court trial. This is often a better solution for both parties as it saves time and allows both parties to state their cases in a calmer environment. According to the American Psychological Association, more than 20% of first marriages end in divorce within five years. Because of this, a child custody lawyer is essential in helping you and your ex-spouse or co-parent reach an amicable agreement. The lawyer can act as a neutral third party who can guide you through the mediation process and help you draft a parenting plan that reflects your mutual goals.

3. Represent You in Court

Depending on the relationship between two spouses, mediation may not always be an option or it may fail after the initial attempt. In that case, you will have to go to court where a judge would have to make a final ruling on who gets custody of the child. The court system involves a great deal of paperwork and time. Luckily, your legal representative will handle all the paperwork, question witnesses, and help gather any evidence that can help with your case. Legal professionals are trained to present an argument to the judge and possible jury that could help support your position as a parent. Once a ruling has been initiated, there are also post-judgment issues your lawyer can help you with, such as any appeals or custody modifications.

4. Provide Emotional Support

Dealing with custody battles could be an emotional time. However, a child custody attorney handles many other cases and understands what you're dealing with. They can offer practical advice on how to deal with the challenges that come with divorce and custody disputes. They can also connect you with other professionals or resources that can help you and your children heal and move on.

5. Save Time and Money

Any legal issue can result in a lot of lost time and money. The longer a custody hearing or any other legal trial drags out, the more money you'll have to spend on legal fees and taking time off from work. However, with a legal professional on your team, they can handle the case more efficiently and effectively. Thanks to their experience working with such cases, they know how to avoid delays and prevent errors that could cost you in the long run. After all, they know how to handle the necessary paperwork and keep up with any changes in laws that might affect your situation. This lawyer can also help you avoid unnecessary conflicts and litigation that could prolong the dispute and increase the emotional and financial toll on you and your children.

Child custody disputes aren't easy for anyone involved. The best thing you can do to work out an agreement with the other parent and do the best thing for your child is to get solid professional legal advice and representation. For an experienced child custody attorney you can trust, contact us at Ed Frizzell Law LLC today for a free consultation.