If you are preparing for a divorce and have decided to seek custody, it's time to make sure that you understand what's ahead. Custody proceedings are never easy and can often be tumultuous. Before you start the process on a determined, stop-at-nothing path, there are some things that you need to think about. Here are some tips to help you handle your upcoming custody case.

Put The Kids First

Protecting your children should be first and foremost throughout your custody proceedings. That often means opting for mediation to settle your custody agreement so that you can avoid having to drag your children into court. Court hearings can be emotional and challenging, which can upset your children.

Additionally, try to keep your children from overhearing any conversations about the proceedings. Don't speak ill of their other parent in front of them, and ensure that they know that you love them.

Don't Go It Alone

Many people believe that they can go into a custody case on their own and do just fine. While this might be true in some cases, it's generally a good idea to hire an attorney from the beginning. 

Your attorney can handle much of the challenging negotiations and discussion, which can take a lot of the burden off of you. When you do retain an attorney, remember that they are the professionals. Heed your lawyer's advice throughout the process. This can help you to ensure the outcome that you're hoping for.

Be Prepared For Anything

Even when you feel as though you know your spouse well enough to know exactly what he or she might do in this situation, it's important that you go into your custody battle prepared for anything. When things get tense, as they do in custody hearings, your former spouse may lash out and take steps that you'd never imagine them taking.

Make sure that you are fully ready for a fight when it comes to child custody. If you have a reason for fighting for primary custody, ensure that you have documentation to support the situation. Do everything you can to support your case, even if it means working with your lawyer to hire an investigator or other experts.

The better prepared you are for your child custody case, the easier it is for you to get through the process without worrying about the outcome. Protect your children, work with a child custody lawyer, and ensure that you are ready no matter what comes.