Courts deciding child custody issues always seek to answer one basic question: What is in the best interest of the child? Ronald D. Zipp, Attorney at Law knows the answer depends on a wide variety of factors. Based in New Braunfels, TX, this experienced divorce and family law attorney provides advice and representation to parents with child custody questions and disputes. Here, he explains what courts consider before awarding custody and setting visitation.

These factors are among those that affect both matters: 

• Emotional Ties Between Parent & Child: The courts use indicators including a parent’s knowledge of their children and tendencies to care for them as a way of gauging the emotional parent-child bond. Parents who know what their children like or dislike regarding food, clothing, activities, friends or their other parent are likely to have a deeper emotional connection with their children than parents who don’t know.
• Daily Care: Meal preparation, personal care, tending to health needs, school choice and attendance, and religious upbringing are all factors in parental responsibility for a child’s daily care. Courts look at how each parent shows love and affection, delivers corrections, and meets their children’s physical and psychological needs.
• Financial & Home Stability: A parent’s ability to care for their kids financially and physically can sway a child custody decision. Judges consider whether the child lives in a safe, stable environment as well as the relationship between the child and other family members in the home. Domestic violence and drug and alcohol abuse can negatively influence the outcome of your case. 

Ronald D. Zipp, Attorney at Law offers wise counsel to parents going through a divorce or other situations in which child custody issues arise. You can depend on his dedicated and compassionate representation during these sensitive and emotional processes. If you need advice or representation in child custody or visitation matters, contact Ronald D. Zipp, Attorney at Law in New Braunfels, TX. Visit his website for more information about his family law practice, and call (830) 629-5600 to schedule your attorney consultation.