Going through a custody battle can be a tough and emotional experience for any parent or guardian. It can feel like your life is turned upside down, and you might not know what to do or say. Unfortunately, some people make mistakes during a custody battle that can negatively impact their case. In this blog post, we'll discuss what not to do during a custody battle in Arizona, what you should do, and how an attorney can help. 

1. Don't bad-mouth the other parent

One of the common mistakes parents make during a custody battle is bad-mouthing the other parent. This can include speaking negatively about the other parent in front of the children, posting unfavorable content about the other parent on social media, or even sharing sensitive information about the other parent with third parties. Doing this can damage your case in court as the judge might perceive this as a sign of immaturity, which may in turn reflect on your ability to raise a child.

2. Don't violate the court order

Another mistake parents make during custody battles is violating any court orders that pertain to the case. Failing to comply with the court's decision will ultimately lead to contempt of court charges. That's a serious offense that can land you in jail and worse yet, damage your chances of gaining custody of your child.

3. Don't make unilateral decisions

One of the hardest things about shared custody is that sometimes it's difficult to agree with your ex-partner on how to raise a child. When making decisions on issues such as medical procedures, education, or vacations, it's best to involve the other parent. Making unilateral decisions can be interpreted as an unwillingness to cooperate with the other parent and can harm your chances of getting custody.

4. Do keep your emotions under control

While it's natural to feel emotional when going through a custody battle, it's important to try to keep your emotions in check. Being angry, hostile, or excessively emotional in court will not be conducive to your case. Instead, try to stay calm, collected, and focused. 

5. Do get an attorney

A good attorney can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system during a custody battle. They can provide you with legal advice and help you make informed decisions. They can also help you to negotiate with the other parent and represent you effectively in court. At the Law Offices of Michael D. Miller Jr., we can help you with your child custody matter at every stage of the legal process.

Going through a custody battle can be a difficult and emotional time, but it's essential that you don't make mistakes that can harm your case. In this blog post, we've outlined what not to do during a custody battle in Arizona, including not to bad-mouth the other parent, not to violate the court order, and not to make unilateral decisions. Additionally, we've talked about the importance of keeping your emotions under control and getting an attorney to represent you. The Law Offices of Michael D. Miller Jr. can provide you with the legal representation you need to navigate this trying time and ensure the best possible outcome for you and your child.