Attorney Cynthia Hawes provides guidance on family court proceedings

Family law attorney Cynthia Hawes shared insights regarding common mistakes parents make during custody, child support, and parenting time proceedings. During an appearance on The Rickey Smiley Morning Show, Hawes emphasized that being a ‘good parent’ is not the sole metric used by the court; instead, judges prioritize the best interests of the child.

Key factors influencing judicial decisions include a child’s physical and educational well-being, such as attending school and medical appointments. Hawes noted that neglecting a child’s health, such as dental care, can negatively impact custody arrangements. Additionally, parental conduct outside the courtroom—including missed visitations, failure to follow parenting schedules, unanswered messages, and unpaid child support—can significantly affect legal outcomes. Hawes advised parents to remain respectful when addressing judges and to strictly adhere to all court orders.