For many reasons, communities and judges react differently to fault testimony. Their reaction depends on many factors. Perhaps the community is conservative or there has been a great deal of publicity about a recent child-abuse case. Something in the judge's own life may influence a decision. The law differs from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Adultery may be automatic grounds for denial of custody in Waco, Texas, but it probably will not impress a judge in downtown Los Angeles. Each judge has his or her own prejudices that should be thoroughly researched before making your appearance.

Describe to the judge in graphic detail the conduct and behavior of the other spouse. It is not enough to state that Dad is cruel. Present specific evidence showing incidents of his cruelty. If Dad abuses the children, recount the Saturday last week when Dad grabbed Billy by the ear and held him with his face against the table until he said "please" (he was just asking to pass the salt at the dinner table). Describe the blood-curdling scream of the child, the look in Dad's eyes, and the reaction of the other children who cowered in fear. Make the testimony come alive.

A client is often tempted to become petty and vindictive. The attorney must be careful not to adopt this attitude. It can be contagious. The one thing a judge dislikes more than a whining client is an attorney who is self-righteous and emotionally involved. Remain professional and composed. An impassioned plea on behalf of your client may persuade a judge, but more often than not, a judge is interested in a clear explanation of the facts of the case.

Avoid being malevolent and spiteful in your presentation. Your blistering cross-examination has revealed that Mom is an adulterous and promiscuous woman. She is in tears. You have humiliated and intimidated her. But you may have inadvertently elicited the sympathy of the court for this woman. By toning down your examination, you will prevent a backlash from the court. Show that your client understands the difficulties his wife is going through and would help her if he could. However, do not go overboard or be maudlin in your efforts to show your own client's sympathetic feelings for his ex-spouse.

After presenting your fault evidence, conclude the case on a positive note. If the judge is left with the impression that all you can show is that the other spouse is rotten, he or she may assume that your client is no better. Establish that your client is the primary psychological parent. Show that it is in the children's best interest for your client to have custody. Conclude your case in such a way that the judge will know that by awarding your children custody, the children will be in a safe and loving home. The following list describes some common and some not-so-common faults that can be the basis for a change in custody. This list is not intended to cover every imaginable deviation or reason for denying custody. That would fill volumes. It is intended to give the attorney a checklist that could be used in a client interview to bring out possible undisclosed information. The checklist that follows should be adapted for your community and judge.