You can also get first hand tips on what you should expect before, during and after the child custody case. The next important step in filing for a child custody case is finding a court in the county that you are in that are fit to handle various custody cases which is the family court. You can find a simple list from the government guide usually listed down on the phone book. If the decision is not in your favor, you can always make an appeal. If the higher court upholds the decision, accept it and be contented with the visitation rights granted to you. To sum it up, here are the basic steps you have to follow when filing for custody of your child: Choose the type of custody you will file for (e. It would be futile to pursue your custody case if the children prefer to live with the other parent, unless you think it is dangerous for the children to live with your former spouse. Be involved with your children s lives. In doing so, you are more likely to get the judge s favor. If you leave all the parenting duties to the other parent, then you will lose the custody of your children. Majority of family court judges are hesitant to reject any parent s request to regular see their kids despite losing the child custody case. Also, you can focus your attention on the factor that has caused the custody to be given to the other parent. And most importantly, keep in touch with your child by maintaining regular contact with him or her. The court determines it based on various factors such as the main caretaker of the child, the wishes of the child, the home environment of each parent, the willingness of a parent to nurture a good relationship with the other parent, the character and behavior of each parent, and any case of abuse or neglect of each parent in the past. This position would require explanation, and could be used against the mother if the custody is disputed. An unmarried father would need to first establish his paternity (either by a signed voluntary declaration, or by filing a paternity action) before he can gain rights of access and responsibilities to his child or children.