Child custody can be overwhelming for parents who need to develop a child custody arrangement. For that reason, divorcing parents should focus on a child custody arrangement that is best for their child which is what the family law court will focus on.
How child custody is determined
The family law court will consider a variety of factors to determine what is the best child custody arrangement for the child. What is the best child custody arrangement for the child is different in each situation so the family law court will evaluate each unique situation. Factors the family law court may consider include:
- The mental, physical and moral status of the parents;
- The home and school history of the child;
- The permanence of the proposed home;
- The continuity of the child’s living situation;
- The ability of the parents to provide for the child;
- The love, affection and existing ties between the child and each of the parents;
- If the parents will cooperate and encourage contact with the other parent;
- Whether the parents will be reasonable in accommodating any changes needed;
- If parents will honor the time-sharing schedule;
- The involvement of each of the parents in the child’s life;
- The ability of the parents to meet the developmental needs of the child;
- How parental responsibilities will be divided following the child custody arrangement and if anyone else will be performing parental responsibilities; and
- Any domestic violence.
Child custody arrangements are crucial for children and families which is why it is important to understand what they are based on. Knowing how child custody is determined can help keep parents focused on a child custody arrangement that is best for the child’s overall well-being and for ensuring their safety.