During a Tennessee divorce, many fathers fear how a heated custody battle will end. Fortunately, a father may have some control over the outcome of the case. A father does not have to lose his custody rights to a child. In order to remain in your child’s life, there are winning behaviors.
First, do not ignore the parental rights that you have. If you have visitation, use it. If you have opportunities to spend time with your kids, you need to take part in regular activities. Very Well Family suggests that there are several factors that determine who receives custody. Courts consider paternity. As the father, you should have signed the birth certificate or at least acknowledge paternity. As stated above, in regards to visitation, your relationship with the child matters. There should be a history of a close relationship between father and child.
Now, the relationship with the child’s mother is still important. The court may not intervene in a custody relationship that is in the best interests of the child. If the child is in danger, however, the court will consider a different arrangement. In order to pursue a complete custody change from the mother to the father, the father must provide evidence that the circumstances with the mother are not in the child’s best interests.
Normally, it is in the child’s best interests to have a relationship with both parents. Regardless of who has custody, most courts are open to generous visitation rights.
None of the information on child custody is legal advice. It is for educational purposes only.