After a separation or divorce, it's not uncommon – or unexpected, even - to experience strain in your relationships with family and friends.

You may not have expected that this strain would spread to relationships other than the central one that you have, recently, systematically severed.

This can come as a life-changing, hurtful surprise on a personal level. Unfortunately, when this happens, it can also impact your custody case.

Your ex may relay hurtful statements to your family. Your friends may choose unexpected sides. You may find that the community you've relied upon for years acts surprisingly, vanishing, or even testifying against you when you need them most.

If you're managing a difficult custody battle in the wake of a separation or divorce, you already feel adrift. Now, if one of your loved ones is making your life (and your current custody case) more complicated, it can feel like making progress is particularly impossible.

Your Relationships, Your Custody Battle, and You

A family member may appear as a surprise witness in a custody battle - for the other party. An old friend may provide testimony that paints you in a shockingly unfair light.

On the other hand, your friends and family may show up for you in ways that you haven't expected. You may even be able to exert pressure on your ex and turn the tables in your favor simply by getting their family members involved on your side. However, these steps may be difficult for you.

When family members and friends get involved in your custody case, this is a clear sign that you need to bring in an objective outsider. It's time to look for loyal legal expertise.

Why Having an Experienced Custody Attorney Can Help

Firstly, It might be hard for you to be clear-headed and rational. When friends and family get involved in a custody matter, those cuts go deep. If custody for your child is at stake, you're likely already too close to the situation. When other loved ones show up, it may become impossible for you to act in a strategic way.

In addition, you will need a way to move forward after you custody battle - and that may be easier with unstrained relationships. You may need to manage visitation; you may need to have avenues open for civil communication. You may also want to leave open the possibility to retain your community - for yourself and your child - after their involvement in your case.

If you want to leave the door open for reconciliation and regrowth when friends and family get involved, it might be time to take a step back.

For Reliably Loyal, Clear-Headed Legal Expertise, Call the Lento Law Firm

Whether you're working to keep or seek custody for your loved ones, you're going to need help. Friends and family can help or hinder your case. Particularly if they're a complication, that may simply represent a reason that you need someone with distance and objectivity to help you succeed.

If you're looking for someone capable of keeping a cool head in your custody battle, someone with a passion for defending your family and consistently acting in your best interest, turn to attorney Joseph D. Lento and the Lento Law Firm. He will fight tirelessly for the best outcome for you - and for your family. Contact us online or call 888-535-3686 today to schedule a consultation.