The Big Difference Between Politics and Child Custody

Or at least what it should be. Politics is a race to the bottom. Child Custody, if it’s a “race” at all, is a race to the top. Politics, at least democracy, is a numbers game on several levels. A candidate has to (1) get a bunch of folks to the polls and (2) get most of those folks to vote for him or her. Child Custody, on the other hand, serves what Aaron Sorkin calls “A Constituency of One,” i.e., the best interests of the Child.

This is subtle but extremely important distinction. So, consider your audience when making decisions and taking action in Child Custody matters and Co-Parenting. If the audience is your group of friends, or maybe just you and your ego, who want to respond to rudeness or manipulation from the Other Side by fighting fire with fire, then you’re broadening your stakeholder base more than you should. Firing back a zinger, getting into a shouting match, or posting something unpleasant on Facebook is playing the numbers game that wins in politics, not in Child Custody.

As a Co-Parent or Caring Relative, you don’t have to get fifty million votes, or a hundred Likes, to win. You don’t even have to “win” to win, really. You just have to make the best decision you can for your child with the resources and opportunities you have before you.

A lot of times, and especially in complex situations, knowing what the best decision is can be very difficult. Meeting with a Child Custody lawyer can provide information, perspective and peace of mind to help.

This article contains general information and should not be construed as legal advice for you or your unique situation. If you would like to speak more about how you, as a committed parent or caring relative, can be more effective in your Child Custody case, please visit www.ThinkFoxtrot.com/public_calendars/ to schedule your initial consultation at one of our offices. ~SW, Foxtrot