For divorcing parents, few issues inspire as much debate as child custody and visitation. With such an emotional consideration on the table, spouses may dredge up all sorts of past issues in an attempt to support their plea for sole custody. For parents with a criminal history, the worry that their past may affect their chances of visitation or joint custody may prompt them to agree with any parenting plan suggested. This, however, would be a mistake, and one that can be avoided by working with an experienced family law attorney.