Help! What is reasonable to ask for in a custody hearing?

Question

What is the most I can get without getting full custody of my son? My ex husband filed for full custody (which I know neither of us will get). I just want to agree to joint legal with me having primary physical custody and him having visitation every other weekend, split holidays and 2 weeks during summer. Is that so unreasonable? We go to mediation soon. What should I ask for or agree to that will help me get as much time as possible with my son without completely taking him away from his father? Also, if we can't agree in mediation what will the courts likely rule? Thanks for any help.

Answer 1

If you can afford an attorney, definitely hire one.  If you can't afford one, then you need to have to best information available to you going in to mediation.  Look online.  Most states will offer some sort of guidelines as to what most family courts will award.  My ex wanted more time with our newborn than what I thought was necessary at the time.  I almost consented because I had no funds for an attorney.  I then went online, did my research and found the laws in that state were very strict towards visitation with a baby that age.  I was able to present that, along with some other useful knowledge gained, in my mediation.  It is important that you try to give as much equal time to his father as well.  Sometimes that is tough because you may be angry, or want, in a small way to get even. But your child will come out ahead if you try to resolve things in an adult, even tempered manner.  Do your research....look online under child custody rules for your particular state and try to educate yourself before court.

Answer 2

please by all means let them know about the living situation your ex has. i think what you are asking for is fine. don't forget the child support. more than likely if you two can't agree it will probably be joint custody

Answer 3

What you are asking for is a basic court order between splitting parties, if both agree

The other party can ask for more time like on weekdays.  

The mediator will ask the parties questions and they will answer and the mediator will recommend a plan to the judge and the judge will have final say. The judge will do what is in the best interest of the child/ren

Good luck.

A child needs both parents in their life to live a healthy, happy life.

Answer 4

no i dont think thats unreasonable but u might find ur husband might want 2 c him every wkend. because he will have 2 wait 2 weeks 2 c him otherwise and u wouldnt want 2 wait 2 weeks 2 c him so it might be worth having a few different rotas in ur head u would be willing 2 agree 2

Answer 5

You need a lawyer.

One shouldn't ask total strangers on YA for legal advice. This is much too important not to get professional advice.