There is no denying the turbulent nature of divorce, especially when kids are involved. You have two parents who love their children and want what is best for them, but they may disagree on what “best” means.
Family courts can and will make child custody decisions in a child’s best interests when parents cannot agree on these matters. Avoiding certain conduct during and after your divorce helps preserve your custody rights.
Domestic violence
When co-parents disagree so vehemently that violence erupts, courts take the matter seriously. Any form of violence is up for scrutiny in the court, especially spouse-on-spouse aggression. If the kids are involved, even if they only witness such conduct, it may impact your child custody rights.
Substance abuse
Family judges want to be sure parents are fit and healthy enough to protect and care for their kids. Those suffering from alcoholism or drug addiction are not usually deemed well enough to care for their children alone. Often, substance abuse could lead to supervised visitation or loss of custody.
Court order non-compliance
After issuing court orders in a divorce, judges expect parents to follow them. Failure to do so, especially repeated non-compliance, could compromise your right to share child custody with your co-parent. It is vital to do everything the judge tells you, even if you disagree with the terms of a court order.
Remember, family courts in Tennessee and elsewhere put the well-being of children above all else. Loss of custody rights is rarely permanent, as courts recognize that children need both parents to thrive. With experienced guidance, you can petition the court to allow you additional access to your kids.