Nashville, TN family law attorney Stella K. Mallinak shares the advice she gives clients who are fighting for custody of their children. She advises clients that, regardless of how the other parent behaves, they should always treat them with the respect they would hope to receive. She emphasizes that both the judge and the child are observing these interactions. Children, in particular, learn how to navigate relationships based on the examples set by their parents, and these lessons can influence them long after the case concludes.

She also stresses the importance of focusing on the child’s best interests in custody matters, as this is the standard the judge is required to apply. Decisions should be guided by what benefits the child, rather than what benefits the parent or the other parent, ensuring that the child’s well-being remains the central priority.