What questions will be asked of the parents in deciding custody of children?

Answer 1

When my sister went through this they asked her anything they wanted to. Anything that could possibily cause her to look like she couldn't take care of her kids. It was pretty nasty at times. It went on for several court dates. Be prepared for anything negative they might throw your way. Good luck.

Answer 2

It would probably be easier to list what question won't be asked during a child custody case. The parents are asked questions on just about every aspect of their lives, depending on the allegations made by each parent.

The attorneys for both parents can, and do, ask questions about things that you wouldn't expect, or even think would be relevant. One parent can make all sorts of allegations against the other parent, whether they are true or not, which allows his or her attorney to question that parent about it.

The best thing to do in a custody case is to document everything prior to the court date, even if you don't think it's important. Document anything the other parent does or doesn't do that could possibly be used to prove you would be the better parent.

And, while being questioned on the stand, answer truthfully and calmly, and without embellishing the facts, no matter how surprised, embarrassed, or angry you are at any questions you are asked.

And be prepared to be asked questions you never even thought you would be asked, including, but not limited to: your income, dating/love life, your job/work conditions and hours, how much time you spend with your child, who cares for your child when you're at work, how you discipline your child, if your boyfriend/girlfriend disciplines your child, what chores your child is expected to do, what kind of grades your child makes, who your and your child's friends are, if you have any medical problems, if your child has medical problems, and many, many more questions.

Another Perspective

Judges know that generally speaking, mothers are the ones who provide the day to day care for their children, even if they also work outside the home. However, in many states custody is not gender based but remains a neutral consideration. In most cases you need to be able to show that you were the one who provided day to day care for your child including such tasks as the following:

• You fed, bathed and put the child to bed.
• You got the child ready for school, packed their lunch and got them to school or to the bus.
• You attended all the school conferences, plays, etc.
• You brought the child to the doctor and dentist visits and stayed home with them when they were sick.
• You brought them to school events, sports, birthday parties, play dates, extra curricular activities.
• You took the child shopping for clothes.
• You monitored their school work and helped with homework.
• You took them to family gatherings and visits with grandparents.