Responding To Custody Petition

Summary

When responding to a counter-petition to modify custody and parent time in Utah, address the court and case number, state your name and relationship to the child, and respond to each point in the counter-petition separately. Clearly communicate your wishes regarding custody and parent-time, and provide specific examples of the opposing partys actions that justify your stance. Propose no modifications to parent time but suggest stipulations for safety. If the opposing party fails to provide a safe environment or adhere to stipulations, recommend suspending their parent time. Always consult a legal professional for personalized advice.

Full Conversation

Responding to a counter petition to modify custody and parent time
Sure, I'd be happy to help guide you. Please note that the specifics of this process can differ based on your location. Could you please tell me where you are located?
Utah
Sure! Here are some general pointers for your response:
• Address the court and case number.
• State your name and relationship to the child.
• Respond to each point in the counter-petition separately.
• State your wishes regarding custody and parent-time.
• Sign and date the document.
Remember, consult a legal professional for personalized advice.
How would I say, based on the actions of opposing party I believe it is in the best interest of the child to remain in my full custody
You could say, "Given the conduct exhibited by the opposing party, I firmly believe that retaining my full custody aligns with the child's best interests." Remember to provide specific examples of the opposing party's actions that led to this conclusion.
Ok
That's great! Remember, your goal is to clearly communicate your perspective while maintaining respect for the other party. If you need more help, please feel free to ask.
How would I say, the opposing party has missed parent time, created an unsafe environment, failed to support our child financially and lacked involvement.
You could say, "The opposing party has consistently missed allocated parent time, fostered an unsafe environment, shown financial irresponsibility towards our child's needs, and demonstrated a lack of involvement." Always ensure to back up these claims with specific instances and evidence if possible.
How would I say there should be no modification to parent time but there should be stipulations put upon the opposing party to exercise parent time safely
You might say, "I propose no alterations to the parent time schedule. However, it is crucial that specific stipulations be imposed on the opposing party to ensure that parent time is executed in a safe, secure environment for our child."
Ok
That's great! Remember to be specific and clear in your stipulations. If you need more help, please feel free to ask.
How would I say if parent time can not be executed in a safe environment and if stipulations put in place are not followed then parent time should be removed for opposing party
You could state, "If the opposing party fails to facilitate a safe environment during parent time, or neglects to adhere to the stipulations, I believe it is in our child's best interest to suspend their parent time."
Okay
That's great! Remember, it's important to express your concerns respectfully and professionally. If you need further help in drafting your response, don't hesitate to ask.
Ok
You're doing a great job advocating for your child's best interest. Is there any other information or help you require in crafting your response?