| Paint a picture with your logs Custody logs create a picture of the relationship you have with your children demonstrating that it is in the best interest of the children to spend time with you. Your goal is to provide a reliable, healthy and stable living environment. |
Include the following in your child custody logs:
In the book, Evidence Strategies for Child Custody, by Eric Dearman, he suggests including the following in your logs:
| Include the following in your child custody logs: |
EXCHANGES
date, time, location
tardiness
contentious interaction
any other issues or complications
photos are good logs
PICK-UP & DROP-OFF
daycare
school
after-school programs
BEDTIME
length of sleep
time they fell asleep
bedtime routine
DAILY ACTIVITIES
playdates
learning activities
outings to the park/playground
music practice
sports
screen time
CHILD’S BEHAVIOR & MOOD
good or concerning behavior
polite, patient, well-mannered
attentive, communicative shy, withdrawn, anxious
aggressive, disruptive, temper tantrums
energy level (tired, well-rested, calm, active)
EDUCATION
homework status
performance update
school behavior reports
developmental milestones
reports of tardiness
incomplete assignments
school reports
OTHER PARENT’S CONDUCT
concerns about irresponsible parenting or neglect
denial of communication or access to child
violations of existing Custody Orders
unilateral decisions resistance to co-parent
police reports
financial reports
mental instability
COMMUNICATION WITH CO-PARENT
texts
emails
summary of calls
demonstrate your willingness to co-parent
SCHEDULES
custody schedule
school/ activities
daily
holidays/ school breaks
RECEIPTS
child support
expenses
activities
MEDICAL RECORDS
checkups, vaccinations
mental health support
illnesses
SUMMARY OF COMMUNICATION WITH THIRD PARTY
Character witnesses – get good references
Summary of discussions with attorney
Private Investigator reports
Depositions
How to Create a Custody Log
Custody logs can be completed using CaseKeepers on your desktop or mobile device as it makes everything much simpler, faster and more organized. If you choose to hire an attorney, your journal entries and attachments can all be shared with your attorney. If you are representing yourself, CaseKeepers will help you generate reports for the courts.
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