Child custody is one of the most sensitive family law topics. In most cases, parents want to spend as much time with their kids as possible, making it difficult to work out an arrangement both parties can agree on. If they can't come to terms, the courts will determine a schedule based on the best interests of the minor. If you are going through a contentious battle, it’s helpful to know some of the most common factors that affect a ruling.

What Influences the Child Custody & Visitation Arrangements?

1. Relationship Between the Child & Each Parent

One of the first aspects the court will look at is the children’s existing relationship with each of their parents. If one has been a primary caregiver while the other has been largely absent from their kids’ lives, this fact will likely impact the judge’s decision.

2. Living Environment

It’s in the best interest of a child to live in a stable, loving, and financially secure environment. The court will ensure a parent can provide accommodations that are clean and in a safe neighborhood, has the means to meet all their kid’s basic needs, and can offer a normal routine.

3. Willingness to Work With One Another

Unless there are extenuating circumstances, the court strongly believes children thrive best when they have a relationship with both parents. Because of this, there’s a better chance of them awarding custody to the parent they feel won’t purposely limit the amount of time their child has with the other.

4. Mental & Physical Health

Although disabled parents can be just as capable of caring for their children as those who are healthy, the court will carefully look at any mental or physical ailments a caregiver has. Parents should be emotionally and physically strong enough to tend to the needs of their kids.

5. Child Preferences

In custody cases that involve older children, the court will often take into account their wishes. A judge may interview them away from their parents to get an honest opinion on where they feel most comfortable and why they prefer one caregiver over the other.

You can’t predict how a court will view the best interests of a child, but you can improve your chances of getting the custody arrangement you want by working with a lawyer who understands the system. For family law matters, the residents of Hinesville, GA, trust in the expertise of Arnold & Stafford to help them get the results they’re hoping for. The firm’s legal team has over 60 years of experience fighting for parental rights. Call (912) 369-4529 to schedule a consultation, or visit their website to learn more about their background in this practice area.