Tips For Handling a Child Custody Dispute

 Posted on February 17, 2025 in Child Custody

Not every divorce is a clean split. When loaded, emotionally charged issues come up between spouses, a dispute can bring negotiations to a halt. Fewer issues are more emotionally charged than child custody. If you and your spouse cannot reach an agreement about who the child should live with or who gets decision-making responsibility, you may have no choice but to settle the matter in court. 

A Texas family law attorney can represent you in a custody battle, keeping the child’s best interests at heart while advocating for your rights. At Powers Kerr & Rashidi, PLLC, we provide personalized legal services for people going through difficult divorces, pursuing effective solutions to complex problems.

Avoid Social Media

While your divorce is still pending, you should try to avoid sharing anything about your personal life on the internet. If your spouse is determined to make you out to be a bad parent, anything you post could be turned against you. For instance, if you share a photo of a night out with your friends, a small detail in the picture like a glass of wine could lend itself to uncharitable interpretations.

Though it may feel isolating, staying off social media during a custody battle can work in your favor. An attorney at Powers Kerr & Rashidi, PLLC can advise you on how to conduct yourself to stay out of trouble.

Stay On The Court’s Good Side

During a custody dispute, the court could appoint a special representative known as a guardian ad litem (GAL). The GAL’s role is to represent a child’s best interests. The guardian ad litem will do so by observing the child and interviewing important people in the child’s life, and then making a recommendation to the judge about a custody arrangement that would serve the child. 

Before your court date, the GAL will likely pay a visit to your household to interview you and/or your child. Remain polite and be prepared to answer any questions honestly. At Powers Kerr & Rashidi, PLLC, we can help you prepare for a GAL’s visit and speak up for you in court.

Document All Evidence

If you have reason to believe that your spouse is not a fit parent, you should collect any evidence that supports your belief. This may include voicemails, text messages, witness statements, or any other proof demonstrating that your spouse is not a responsible or safe parent.

When possible, avoid direct confrontation with your spouse without an attorney present. A high-conflict divorce can be very difficult for a child, and in addition to protecting your child from exposure to conflict, fighting constantly with your ex may influence the court’s decision about how custody should be handled. Our attorneys can help you compile evidence for your preferred custody arrangement and present it to the courts.

Meet With an Austin, TX Child Custody Lawyer Today

If you are going through an intense custody battle, Powers Kerr & Rashidi, PLLC is here to stand up for you in and outside of the courtroom. Our Travis County, TX family law attorneys can provide you with sound legal advice and strong representation, making sure your concerns as a parent are heard. To schedule a consultation, call us at 512-610-6199 today.