Five Factors that Determine the Outcome of a Child Custody Court Decision

As we talk about child custody, the main factor a lot of states focus on would be “the best interest of the child.” However, aside from that, here are the other factors that can affect child custody.

image:pixabay.com

1. The Relationship of Each Parent with the Child Before the Divorce
There are instances where a parent who didn't even spend much time with his child before the divorce end up developing a strong desire to be with his kid right after the marriage has ended. In most cases, this desire is considered to be sincere and most judges would respect it. This holds true especially if the parent has been quite dedicated in nurturing his children during the separation period. However, rest assured that the judge would still assess the parent's change of heart. This is important to ensure that the winning parent would be able to give the best for his kid, and he's not just doing this to win over the other parent. Though, if the other parent feels that the sincerity is questionable, she should inform this to the judge, so as to her lawyer. Through this, they'll be able to investigate and observe the parent in question. Hiring a reputable lawyer usually comes handy in fighting for the child custody. Click here to know more how you can get the help you need from a divorce lawyer

2. Age of the Child
Gone are the days when child custody is determined by simply looking at the age of the child. Wherein, the younger the child is, the more he should be with his mother. Despite that, some judges still believe that younger children, especially toddlers, should be with their mother. However, this is not always followed, especially if the mother is facing some charges regarding child abuse and/or substance abuse.

3. The Living Situation of Each Parent
Sometimes, the parent who lives in the family home will get the child custody, because the judges believe that the child would have a stable environment by living with this parent. Same goes to the parent who's living in the family home. On the other hand, if you don't own a place, and you often sleep in your friend's house, then the chances of getting child custody won't be that high. The distance of one's home to his/her spouse could also affect the judge's decision. Wherein, the closer your home is, the more chances that the judge would suggest a time-sharing plan.

4. Children's Preferences
If the child is old enough to decide for himself, the judge may talk to him and ask where he'd prefer to be with. The court usually prioritize the kid's views in deciding. By asking the child, the judge would also be able to learn more from a custody evaluator.

5. Mental and Physical Health of Each Parent
In situations where one parent is physically or mentally disabled, this means that he would have a hard time taking care of the children. The court would look through this and see who should be the one to get full-time custody and which parent would pay for child support. Aside from that, each parent would also be interviewed and asked how willing they are to work with the other parent. The court would make sure that the children won't feel deprived in seeing one of his parents.