When it comes time for the court to decide who will have custody of a child, there are many factors that come into play.
As a parent, here is what you need to remember: The court is going to do what is in the best interest of your child. Although it may not be something that you want to do, this is the stance you should take as well. It may mean you don’t get everything you want, but as long as it works in favor of your child it is a good thing.
Here is a list of some of the many child custody factors:
— The wishes of the child, if he or she is old enough to provide information.
— The physical and mental health of the parents.
— Opportunities for interaction with other family members.
— Adjustment to community and school.
— The age and sex of the child.
— Any history of alcohol, drug, or sex abuse by either parent.
— Parental use of emotional or physical abuse.
The court is never going to make a decision that puts a child in a bad situation. You should take the same stance, as you want your child to be in the best position to live a good life.
When you understand the many child custody factors, as well as how they are looked at by the court, you can make decisions that allow you to maintain a solid relationship with your child in the future. And as you know, there is nothing more important than that.
Source: FindLaw, “Child Custody Basics,” accessed April 14, 2016