If you’ve ever gone through a child custody battle, you know how excruciating it can be. It seems like, no matter what you say, the mediator or judge doesn’t want to listen. This could be due to the fact that it’s your word against the word of your ex. You’d be surprised how much more seriously your claims will be taken if they are backed up by credible, impartial evidence. This is why it’s a good idea to consider hiring a skilled private investigator in South Carolina.
Your private investigator (PI) will work hand in hand with your attorney to get the best possible child custody arrangement. If you don’t have a lawyer, that’s okay. Your P.I. will work diligently to provide you with the evidence you need to prove that you’re the ideal parent. Investigators have years of experience dealing with child custody cases in Greenville.
They also have access to information and investigative tools that the average person doesn’t have. Using one to assist in your child custody case can put you at a serious advantage over the other parent. This is why you should call one as soon as possible after you’ve filed a motion for a modification to child custody.
What Factors Does the Court Consider When Determining Child Custody?
When the court looks at a child custody matter, there is only one thing they are concerned with – the best interests of the children. They don’t take sides and they don’t favor one parent over the other. Of course, many people assume that the mother is in a better position to get primary custody during or after a divorce. And, for the most part, this is true. But that isn’t because the courts prefer women over men. It has to do with the fact that women tend to be the stay-at-home parent while the man is out supporting his family with a full-time job.
Notwithstanding this fact, the courts look at a host of factors when it comes to deciding custody. Some of these include the following:
- Which parent is home full-time and therefore better able to care for the children
- The general lifestyles of the parents
- Any history of alcohol or substance abuse
- Criminal history
- History or past evidence of domestic violence
- Which parent has the ability to care for the children both physically and mentally
- Whether the parents can provide their kids with a stable, safe, and clean home
This is why a private investigator can help. They can do the necessary research to show that your ex is not the ideal parent given the circumstances.
Contact an Experienced Private Investigator in Greenville, South Carolina Today
If you’re in the middle of a bitter custody battle, information can be your biggest asset. The way the courts are going to determine custody is by looking to see what’s in the best interests of the children. They make this determination by reviewing any credible evidence submitted by the parents or their attorneys. They also review the information submitted to them by the caseworker assigned to your case, if there is one.
Like it or not, they put little stock in what the parties say about each other. If there isn’t evidence to back it up, they aren’t going to take your claims seriously. That’s why it’s a good idea to call and at least talk to a skilled private investigator in Greenville, South Carolina.
When you first meet with your P.I., they’ll ask you to describe the situation. They’ll also ask pointed questions so they can get a better idea of what’s going on. Once they have the basics of your case, they’ll decide the best way to proceed. They may tell you that there isn’t enough information to go on. Although this is unlikely. What’s more likely to happen is they’ll let you know what your options are as far as the investigative tools are concerned.
Once you come to an agreement on the sort of investigation you want them to conduct, they’ll let you know what their fee will be. Depending on the price, you may decide to retain their services. Or you may want to take your chances on your own. With so much at stake, however, that may not be the best idea.