Child custody is often a difficult decision for parents to make. Many parents find it difficult to split custody with the other parent, which can divide the time parents are involved in their child’s life. Some parents may not want the other parent involved in their child’s upbringing. If parents cannot agree on child custody terms, the matter may go to court.
A court may consider several factors before deciding the terms for child custody. The biggest factor that affects child custody arrangements is a child’s best interests. Here is what you should know:
What are a child’s best interests?
A child’s best interests mean factors that affect a child’s safety, welfare and well-being. There are several ways parents can prove to the court that they have the best interests of their child in mind, including the following:
- A parent has a stable job and income
- A parent can provide for their child’s basic needs (food, clothing, etc.)
- A stable home in a safe neighborhood
- A good relationship with their child
- A child has a good relationship with close relatives
- A parent can provide for their child’s emotional and physical needs
- A parent can cooperate with the other parent
- A parent is prepared to share custody
- A parent can meet a child’s educational needs
- Community involvement
Some factors can negatively impact a parent’s ability to meet their child’s best interests, including the following:
- A parent has a criminal history or is in jail
- A history of neglect, abuse or abandonment
- A parent frequently travels for work
- A parent regularly changes jobs
- A parent has a mental or physical condition
Proving a parent has their child’s best interests in mind can be difficult. Parents can seek legal help to support them during a court hearing.