One of the most difficult situations for a parent to be in is not having control over who your child is around or what kind of individuals are influencing your child’s development. Your child custody attorney can help you feel hopeful in explaining that you do have remedies if you feel your child is being harmed in any way, both physically and psychologically. 
Below we discuss factors judges consider when evaluating this type of situation, general advice most judges traditionally give to parents when custody is at issue, and the possible long road ahead the other parent may be facing if the negative environment is not corrected.
Traditional Advice
In general, most family court judges will tell each parent that during an open custody case, living with a new partner during this time may negatively impact the outcome of the case for that parent.
A parent’s living arrangement, environment, and who resides in the home is always at issue during custody determinations. If you suspect the other parent has moved a new person into the house that you are not aware of, nor have you met, and suspect that the new person does not have the best of intentions, you can introduce that during your custody hearing.
Environment Considered as a Whole
While a family court judge will not outright deny custody to a parent that is living with another individual, especially if the environment is stable and loving, some of judges’ beliefs about unwed couples raising a child may cloud the situation.
In many judges’ experiences, the sudden cohabitation of a new partner does not show wise judgement, considering a child has just had their family torn apart. Showing consideration, respect, and allowing some time to pass allowing your child to get used to the new way of life is looked upon as more appropriate.
Although the law does not state cohabitation between unwed individuals or adultery is against the law, the judge will consider every piece of the new environment to determine if it is in the best interest of the child to reside with that parent.
The greatest value that your child custody attorney will reveal, which is the judge’s main goal, is to maintain stability. Having your child in a home with the other parent and a new roommate or romantic partner can cause feelings of instability and threaten structure, especially if your child has never met the other person.
Next Steps
If you are concerned about having unknown people around your child in the other parent’s home, let your child custody attorney know as soon as possible so that a child custody modification can be filed.
Collect evidence stating why this is not a good environment for your child, and make sure your attorney has those before the hearing.
Free Consultation with a Tulsa Child Custody Attorney
Not knowing who your child may be around or what situation they may be involved in can be a parent’s worst nightmare. Your child custody attorney is here to help and advocate on your behalf.
Hiring a knowledgeable and compassionate family law attorney will ensure the process is expertly conducted and your interests are well represented.
Contact an experienced Tulsa child custody attorney when you need to go through the Oklahoma relocation process.
For a free confidential consultation, call now: 918-924-5526.
