Keeping Custody Under Control by Barbara Walton Reprinted with permission from Single Parenting in the Nineties Clients often ask me what they can do to increase their chances of receiving an order for the type of custody of their choice.
Basic civility is crucial in the eyes of custody judges and hearing officers.
In some states, inability to discuss the child politely can be grounds for denying joint custody. If one parent or the other has been less than well-behaved, this may be difficult, but the cost of control pays off in the long run. Have an appropriate sized place to live. While your residence needn't be the Taj Mahal it should be well kept and have enough space for all to live comfortably. Once children reach the age of five, boys and girls should probably sleep in separate rooms.