If you are having problems with your ex-spouse or mate over the custody of your child or children, then you will need to hire a family lawyer ASAP. Some people do not hire attorneys because they do not have the funds to do so. Other people think they can get by without an attorney. The following are five areas that the judge will review and why custody issues need legal assistance:

Income

The judge is going to look at each person’s income and then determine whether each parent can take care of the child or not. If any discrepancies exist, they could cause one of the parents to have a disadvantage. An attorney can conduct the research necessary to make sure that the both parents’ correct earnings and bill payment habits (rent, utilities, food shopping) shows up correctly.

Criminal History

Criminal history plays a role in whether or not a parent can have custody of a child. One parent could clearly be fitter than the other one is because of the nature of the other one’s past crimes and the time frame of such crimes. However, some people can pay to have their records disappear. In such a case, the other parent may look like the less fit person because something from his or her record still shows up while the other parent’s past has been erased. A lawyer can help in that situation by using deep investigative tactics or by defending the client and showing that he or she no longer commits crimes.

Lifestyle

Lifestyle plays a part in child custody, and judgment about it rests in the hands of the judge. A lawyer can ensure that no bias occurs during the judgment process.

Relationships Between Child and Family

The courts will weigh the relationship between the child and the family, and they will decide based on the input that they receive. Unfortunately, a great deal of coaching may occur beforehand. It is mandatory for parents to have a lawyer in this situation because it’s a difficult one to combat. Without a good family lawyer, a person may lose the child because of successful manipulation and coaching by other family members. A lawyer may be able to help the judge discern any dishonesty that may be occurring in the case.

Physical and Mental Health

Health issues and what some specialists consider as “mental health” issues will be considered in a custody case. One side may lie about the other side to gain an advantage. If the one side does not have a lawyer, the other side may gain so much of an advantage that it wins. Even false accusations and statements may be accepted as truth if no one is there to defend the “ill” parent.

Custody fights can get nasty and downright dirty. Family lawyer offices want to help, and some of them will work with prospective clients on the price if they ask. The information on the Matrimonial Home website may have additional insights and can provide you with further support.