Quickly filing the Answer, with its Answer Filing Fee, stops the Petitioner from simply taking everything by Default. Then, the parties either reach an agreement, or the court makes the decision. Wishful thinking causes long-term loss. Don't fall into that trap. Negotiation needs to be from a position of strength to be effective.
Simple forms provided by the court are often insufficient in contested cases.
They leave out important matters regarding your rights, because it's easier for the courts to process them. You are safer hiring experienced help to prepare your response, and to spot future problems, that court-provided documents often don't reveal. Once the final Decree or Judgment has been signed, it may be too late. In this state the factors under the statute for the court's concern are primarily the Health, Safety and Welfare of the child. In addition to the physical matters including hygiene, medicine, nutrition, and supervision the court will look at emotional and psychological factors.