Custody battles can be stressful, especially when the other parent is keeping you from your child. You want to have a relationship with your child, but it can be difficult to do when you're denied the time you need to develop it. If you're being denied your right to a relationship with your child, and you've tried everything you can to work with the other parent, it's time to get the courts involved. It's time to hire an attorney and fight for your rights as a parent, and for the rights of your child to have a loving relationship with you. Here are four steps you need to take for your battle with the other parent:

Keep Records

This is crucial. You've got to keep detailed records, especially if you think the other parent is going to lie in court. If the other parent is saying that you don't show up for visits, that you don't attempt to have a relationship with your child, or that your child doesn't want to have a relationship with you, let your records speak for themselves. When you send letters, send them a return receipt, so that you have proof they were sent. When you call and get the answering machine, make a note of the time and day that you call. When you do have the opportunity to spend time with your child, take plenty of pictures showing you both having fun.

Dress and Act the Part

When you go to court, the judge is going to be looking at both of you. They're going to be assessing the way you dress and act, so make sure you dress and act that part. Be professional. If you can't afford a suit, that's okay. Just make sure that you're clean and that you behave your very best. It's crucial that you refrain from emotional outbursts, even if you're extremely upset. The other parent's legal team is going to be looking for anything they can use against you, and an emotional outburst is just what they'll need to sway the judge – especially if it's an angry outburst.

Try to Communicate

If your rights are being violated, and you're being denied a relationship with your child, you're not going to feel like communicating with the other parent. However, that's exactly what you need to do. You need to try and keep the lines of communication open. Show the judge that you're the bigger person who's trying to work through the problems you're facing. Volunteer for counseling and for mediation. These attempts at communication will play favorably for you when it comes time for court.

Listen to Your Attorney

If you're being denied access to your child, listen to your attorney. They know what they're doing, and how to help you. Go ahead and voice your concerns, but be willing to adhere to the advice of your attorney. Keep a journal of everything you discuss with your attorney so that you can refer back to those notes whenever you need to. It's also important that you contact your attorney whenever questions or concerns arise.

Contact a law office like Lois Iannone Attorney at Law for more information and assistance.