In a contested divorce, making the right decision in a child custody case is critical to the child’s future. This is why judges base their decisions on the child’s best interests. If you are locked in a child custody battle with your ex-spouse, it is essential to know what the judges factor in to reach a verdict. The parent with more money will not necessarily be granted child custody, as detailed below.
Typically, courts seek to have both parents involved in their child’s life despite the divorce. However, it is not usually the case in certain circumstances, and one parent may be awarded full custody. Here is what judges look at in a child custody case.
- Your relationship with the child and how close they are to you.
- Whether you can provide a safe environment for the child to grow and thrive in.
- Your ability to nurture, provide parental care, guidance and protect the child.
- The child’s development needs and your ability to meet them.
- Your mental and physical well-being.
- Your ability to communicate with the other parent and arrive at joint decisions amicably.
- How much the child’s life will be affected by potential changes of residence or schools.
- Evidence of abuse from either parent.
- Any other factors that the courts may want to take into account.
Safeguard your parental rights
Some couples settle scores by using the children as weapons, and it does not usually end well for all the parties involved. Should you find yourself in a child custody case with your former spouse, it is important to learn more about the family law facets that will come into play. Knowing how to navigate such a case is key in protecting your parental rights and ensuring a desirable outcome for you.
