Are you wondering how the court decides who gets custody of a child after a divorce?
Globally, it is estimated that up to 1 billion children aged 2–17 years have experienced domestic abuse, according to recent data. Experiences like these are disruptive to the child’s life and producing a stable environment for them is crucial for their future success.
When parents get divorced and have shared custody, a lot of time and consideration goes into the decision for determining child custody. But what happens when one parent has sole custody over their child? How do you determine who will be in custody?
We are here to help. Keep reading for everything you need to know about child custody.
Children’s Ages
When determining child support, it is important to consider the children’s ages. This can influence the amount of child support and visitation rights that the custodial parent receives.
Younger children often need more attention and support.
A custodial parent with a young child may need more time to spend with their child. They may also require additional financial support to cover childcare expenses.
The age and maturity of the children can also determine the best parenting strategy.
Older children may have a more emotional understanding of the situation. However, they need more help expressing their feelings and needs.
The Needs of the Children
The expressed wishes of the children should be taken seriously.
The physical and mental health of the parents will also have to be taken into consideration. This is to know whether they are deemed to take care of the child or not.
The economic, educational, and emotional needs of the child are all important factors when deciding on custody. The distance between the parents must also be taken into account.
It is also important to look at any history of domestic violence either parent may have. This is to decide if the children will be safe in their care.
Each Parent’s Ability to Meet the Children’s Needs
This is especially important because it helps ensure the best interests of the child are taken into account.
Parents must assess the level of stability they each can provide. This can assess whether they can meet the child’s physical, emotional, and financial needs.
Both parents must demonstrate the ability to emotionally support their child and provide a physically safe and healthy living environment. Evaluate each parent’s skills, resources, and support to determine which parent would be better equipped to meet the child’s needs.
It is also important to ensure that the length of time a parent is away from the child will not interfere with providing quality care.
Relationship Between the Children and Each Parent
Each parent has a unique relationship with their children. This can play a role in determining the most appropriate arrangement for the child.
It is important to consider whether the parent-child relationship is strong and healthy. If possible, this type of relationship should continue after the divorce.
If the parents have different parenting styles, these differences must be considered to ensure that each parent can co-parent in the best interest of the child. It may be beneficial to discuss these styles with a therapist to identify any gaps that need to be filled.
Relationship Between the Children and Other Family Members
It is important to consider which family members the children have the strongest relationships with. If one parent has a close relationship with grandparents, aunts, uncles, or cousins, it may be advantageous for the child to spend more time with that parent.
It is also important to consider the child’s preference for which family members the children have difficulty getting along with.
Keeping Stability in Children’s Lives
Both parents should work together. This can create a parenting plan that minimizes disruptions to children’s lives.
Consider if a parent is relocated and the impact of this on the child’s ability to maintain contact with both parents. Finally, the current and projected needs of both parents and the child should be taken into account.
Children’s Physical and Mental Health
It is essential to evaluate the environment in which the child will be living when considering which parent should have primary custody. This includes determining which parent can provide the most physical and emotional support to the child to meet their needs.
Additionally, any history of substance abuse or mental health issues should be considered when making a decision. If one parent has a track record of volatile behavior or is unable to provide stability for the child, it is best to place the child with the other parent.
The Time Each Parent Has Available to Spend With the Children
Parents must assess their time commitments. They should determine who can provide the most steady, consistent presence in the child’s life.
Work schedules, travel demands, and the physical distance between the homes of each parent can influence this decision. Parents with more flexible employment or shorter commutes may be better suited.
If a parent’s job is physically far away, they may still be considered a viable custodial parent if they can visit with the child periodically. Seeking child custody lawyers can provide more specific advice based on any additional factors that could apply.
Lifestyles of Each Parent, if This Has a Direct Impact on Children
The key to determining child custody is to focus on the best interests and protective needs of the child. Parents should remain cooperative and considerate of the other parent as much as possible to ensure a smooth transition for the child.
Ultimately, seeking the advice and support of a skilled child custody lawyer is advised so that all considerations are taken into account, and a fair outcome is achieved. Speak with an attorney today to get the legal aid you need to secure the best future for your children.
Looking for more legal advice and information? Check out our other posts now!
