In Pennsylvania, judges try to stick to conclusive facts when making custody decisions. Strong documentation can help prove a parent’s ability to provide a stable, safe, and loving home, making a difference in the outcome of a case.
What to document
Keeping track of important information can help show a history of care and responsibility. Parents should document:
- Parenting time: Record dates and times of visits, overnight stays, and missed visitations.
- Communication: Save text messages, emails, and notes from phone calls with the other parent.
- Child’s needs: Hold onto medical records, school reports, and notes about activities or special needs.
- Expenses: Track child-related costs, including medical bills, school supplies, and extracurricular activities.
- Incidents: Write down any concerns about the child’s safety or well-being, including missed child support or dangerous situations.
A notebook, calendar, or digital file can help organize this information. Judges may review these records when making custody decisions that align with the child’s best interests.
How documentation helps
Accurate records provide evidence in court. If one parent claims something is untrue, documentation can prove otherwise. For example, if one parent says the other does not visit the child, a record of visits can show the truth. Written communication can also show patterns of cooperation or conflict between parents.
Documentation also helps parents stay organized and prepared. Custody cases can take months, and details can be hard to remember over time. Having a record of important events makes it easier to present a clear and accurate case.
In Pennsylvania, judges focus on the child’s best interests. A well-documented history of care, responsibility, and involvement can show a parent’s dedication. Keeping good records can support a parent’s fight for a fair custody decision that supports the child’s well-being.