Determining who receives custody of a child is a central focus of many parental legal disputes. There are some undeniable factors that impact how a court ultimately assigns child custody rights. Below, three of these factors are explained in more detail.

3 Aspects That Play a Role in Child Custody & Visitation

1. Daily Care

One of the primary areas the courts look at when deciding on child custody is the daily care and support of the child. Which parent is the one to take on the majority of these tasks? This is the parent who prepares the child's meals, bathes/changes/dresses them, puts them to bed, knows their routine, and is their main go-to person for their most important needs.

2. Emotional Bond

While most children have emotional ties with both of their parents, the bond with one of those parents is usually stronger. This is the parent who can easily allay the child's fears; knows the child's likes and dislikes; and spends copious amounts of quality time with the child. The courts will take this into serious consideration when determining child custody and arranging visitation schedules.

3. Stability

Whose home is more stable? Which parent is able to more efficiently provide for and meet the needs of the child? A stable home is a healthy home, and family courts will want to see verifiable evidence that you can afford the steady environment and consistent emotional support your child needs and deserves. Stability will also be a major deciding factor in drawing up visitation schedules as well; a child needs a sense of consistency even when they're not under their own roof.

Divorce attorney Donna C. Crooks, Attorney at Law, offers representation for child support and child custody issues in the Dothan, Daleville, and, Enterprise, AL, areas. Call (334) 598-9534 or connect with her firm via Facebook or Google+ to schedule a consultation. The best interests of your child are the foremost priority of the family courts; be sure you have the routine, the relationship, and the stability to be awarded custody of your child.