Here is what can happen if a parent is unprepared for a custody hearing in Tulsa

Tulsa, OK – Most parents take their obligations to their children seriously and they will want to argue for custody rights when there is a dispute. However, some parents may not prepare for their custody hearings, or they may fail to show up at all. This is never a good idea, as there are a number of serious problems that can occur if a parent is not present and advocating for their interests with their lawyers present. These are a few of the problems parents who did not prepare for a custody dispute can run into, and not following the terms of a custody plan can even cause the parent to be placed in contempt of court. 

Less custody time

It is certainly possible that a parent who has prepared for a custody hearing with their Tulsa custody lawyers and came to court with evidence of their investment in their child will have a much easier time in court. This can result in the other parent getting less custody time than they should, even if they have generally been a good parent and invested in a relationship with their child. Anytime there is a hearing scheduled in court, each parent should always prepare with their lawyer in the days before to avoid these kinds of issues. 

Default judgments

A default judgment occurs in a civil case when one party does not respond or attend required court hearings. If the parent does not show up for the hearing at all, the other parent who is present can present their case without any objection or contrary evidence. This likely means that the judge will award the parent who actually showed up pretty much anything they want. Any custody plan that is ordered after this hearing will still be legally binding on the parent who did not show up, and they will need to follow its terms or they can face severe penalties. 

Mistakes can result in additional problems

If a parent has made mistakes in the past, these can potentially be brought up in the hearing. This is why it is so crucial for preparation with Tulsa divorce lawyers to explain away any past problems and present the parent in a favorable manner. Some of the largest potential issues are tied to substance abuse, child neglect, prior criminal records, and severe financial irresponsibility. A judge may not want to award much custody time or even any custody rights at all to a parent they believe to be unfit. 

More info about child custody in Tulsa

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