Determining child custody during divorce is important and may be one of the most crucial concerns divorcing parents have. Knowing how the process works, and what to expect, is helpful for divorcing parents to be familiar with.
Child custody factors used to determine child custody
A variety of factors determine child custody including:
- The ability of each of the parent ability to care for the child;
- The health and physical well being of each of the parents;
- The work schedule of the parents;
- The desires of the child, depending on the age of the child;
- The ability of the parents to cooperate with one another; and
- Any history of domestic violence in the family.
Both physical and legal custody of the child must be determined which includes who the child lives with and who makes important decisions for the child such as decisions related to the child’s schooling, medical care and religious training. These responsibilities and custody may be shared custody or sole custody.
Make informed decisions when it comes to child custody
Understanding child custody determinations, and how they are made, can help divorcing couples navigate the process which may be understandably emotional and challenging for them to navigate. Focusing on what child custody arrangement is best for the child is paramount.
Child custody is decided based on a determination of what is in the best interests of the child and these factors are used to determine that. The goal of any child custody determination is a child custody arrangement that provides for the child’s overall well-being and the safety of the child.
