Fighting a Custody Battle? How to Prevent Your Immigration Status from Becoming an Issue

Blog

Custody disputes can be stressful, especially when immigration status is a concern. If you're in the United States illegally, your ex may try to interfere in your fight for custody. They may even try to convince you that you have no chance at winning—but that's not the case, even if they do have legal status. You may not have legal status in the United States, but that doesn't mean you're unfit to have custody of your children. It does mean that you'll need to work harder for your rights and for the rights of your children to have you in their lives. Here are four steps to take if you're immigration status is interfering with your custody battle.

1. Hire the Right Attorney

If your immigration status is an issue in your custody battle, you need to hire an attorney as soon as possible. You should work with a family law attorney with experience in both immigration and custody cases. An attorney will ensure that your rights as a parent are protected. They'll also make sure that your custody case isn't resolved based solely on your immigration status.

2. Document Your Relationship

If you're worried that your immigration status will affect your custody battle, document the relationship you have with your children. This documentation should include pictures showing you and your children together. You also need statements that can attest to the relationship your children have with you. Documenting your relationship will show that your children will suffer a significant loss if you're denied custody of them.

3. Ensure a Secure Home

If you're battling your immigration status while fighting for custody of your children, the courts may be concerned about the type of home you can provide. To make sure that this doesn't become an issue, ensure a safe and secure home for your children. Be sure to provide housing documentation to your attorney. That way, they can verify your ability to care for your children.

4. Get Counselors Involved

If your ex is using your immigration status against you during your custody battle, get the counselors involved. This is a particularly important step if you feel that parental alienation is involved. For instance, if your children are voicing a concern that they'll be deported with you, your ex may be trying to use that fear against you. A family counselor can help get to the root of the problem and help you fight for your children.

For more information, contact a family law attorney. 

Share

2 March 2020

Every Business Owner Needs to Be Well-versed in Law

While I took a few business classes in college, I left early to start my own business. I thought I had the knowledge I needed to become a great business owner and was eager to start my business. Soon, I had a new business that was actually performing pretty well in sales. Unfortunately, I hadn't taken any law courses in college, and I soon realized I made a few mistakes when starting my business that could cause me some legal trouble. Thankfully, a great business lawyer helped me correct my mistakes before I had any legal problems, but I then decided to take those business law courses. I want to help business owners and anyone else who would like to learn more about the law by starting a blog where I will share what I have learned and will continue to learn. I hope I can help you!