What to expect during a child custody hearing?
What to expect during a child custody hearing?
A parent who would like more information about what to expect during a child custody hearing should speak to his/her attorney or visit a public child custody hearing to prepare themselves for the child custody case. The best thing for parents to do is to prepare in advance.
Can a child custody case be heard before a jury?
One detail that many people don’t know is that child-custody cases are not heard before a jury; that’s reserved for criminal or civil cases. Your case will be presented in front of the judge, and he or she will likely make an immediate decision and issue a child-custody order.
Who are the witnesses in child custody proceedings?
Witnesses (including workers, school officials, etc.) The parties will testify about their experiences with the child and the parents. The parties may also form an opinion on which parent may be better suited to serve as the primary parent to the child.
How does a judge make a custody decision?
After both parties have presented their side in defense of a particular custody arrangement, a judge will render his/her decision. When reaching a determination for child custody, a judge will make a decision based on the child’s best interests.
What happens at a custody hearing for a child?
At a child custody hearing, the judge will hear from both parents (and in some cases, a representative for the child) and determine the parenting plan that is in the child’s best interests.
When to hire an attorney for a custody case?
Consider hiring an attorney. If your custody case is particularly complex or contentious, an experienced family law attorney can help protect your rights and the best interests of your child. Generally, if you can afford to hire an attorney you should go ahead and do so.
Witnesses (including workers, school officials, etc.) The parties will testify about their experiences with the child and the parents. The parties may also form an opinion on which parent may be better suited to serve as the primary parent to the child.
What to expect during child custody proceedings in New York?
Debrina L. Washington is a New York-based family law attorney and writer, who runs her own virtual practice to assist single parents with legal issues. Court appearances can be quite frightening, especially when the custody of your child is being determined. Parents should walk into all child custody proceedings as prepared as possible.