For many Arizona parents of young children, the new year means purchasing a new calendar and throwing out the one from the previous year. However, before they do so, they may want to think twice. It could be helpful if their marriage is coming to an end.
An old calendar can be helpful in custody actions because many details regarding the child’s life will need to be presented in court. This will include things like their health history, important events, and school activities. When litigation begins, it is easy to experience brain fog. Instead of people racking their brain trying to remember all of the details, all they will need to do is look at that old calendar.
One important item in child custody and support proceedings is determining how much money parents spend on their child. An old calendar can help jog their memory as they think of how much they spent on gifts for their children and travel expenses related to activities for the children. It’s also easy to forget visits to professionals. The calendar will help a person remember how often the child visited a doctor or therapist and if co-pays were involved. When child support is calculated or a support order is modified, part of the equation is how much time each parent spends with the child. An old calendar can provide that information.
These are just some of the factors that are considered when a judge is making a child custody order. Experienced family law attorneys will also advise their clients that the paramount factor is the best interests of the child.