Child custody can be one of the biggest challenges parents face in a divorce. Parents may have the opportunity to create a child custody arrangement on their own. However, if parents cannot agree on a child custody arrangement, a court can determine custody on behalf of the divorcing parents.
When determining child custody arrangements, a court will typically prioritize a child’s best interests, including a child’s safety, well-being and development. The court will, typically, review various relevant factors in a child custody case before determining custody. Here is what you should know:
What factors impact a child’s best interests?
When a court is involved in determining child custody, it will thoroughly investigate the case to determine the best interests of a child. There are several factors that could potentially influence a child custody arrangement, including:
- Each parent’s ability to provide for their child: Parents may need to show that they are able to make a substantial income to meet their child’s basic needs, including food, clothing and shelter. A court may scrutinize a parent who has no income or is unable to hold a job. Likewise, custody decisions could be affected if a parent frequently travels overseas for work, for example.
- Each parent’s mental and physical fitness: A court may consider whether a parent is physically and cognitively healthy when determining custody. Child custody arrangements could be impacted if a parent has a history of severe physical limitations or is unable to provide a stable environment.
- A child’s relationship with their parents and family: Child custody arrangements may rely on whether a child has a close relationship with their parents and extended family members, such as siblings or grandparents.
Parents can seek professional legal guidance to help to negotiate child custody arrangements or to fight for custody in court.