Ending a marriage is especially stressful for those who have children because there is no way to predict the final custody arrangement. As long as you’re a fit parent, though, you do not have to fear the worst. And if you review the factors that affect child custody and take steps to appear more favorable in court, you may even start hoping for the best. Here, Donna C. Crooks Attorney At Law explains what Alabama family law judges consider when determining custody.

Factors Within Your Control 

The court wants to see that you prioritize the children’s best interests above all else. That means you should be willing to cooperate with their other parent, regardless of what might have transpired in the relationship. They also want to see that parents actively participate in their kids’ lives and work hard to foster a close relationship with them. This might include helping them with their homework, attending sports games or recitals, and taking them to doctor’s appointments. 

Factors Outside of Your Control 

Who has handled most of the caregiving tasks up to this point? If the children are still young and one parent stayed home to care for them, he or she will likely get primary custody because of the relationship fostered since birth. Other factors that you cannot change but could influence child custody include past arrests or convictions, your mental and physical health, and the kids’ wishes. 

If you’re facing a child custody battle in Dothan, Ozark, Geneva, Troy, Elba, or Enterprise, AL, turn to Donna C. Crooks Attorney At Law. This divorce attorney knows precisely what’s at stake for each of her clients. That’s why she fights tirelessly on their behalf. She is especially well-versed at representing those facing military divorces and understands the unique challenges that these families face. Visit her website or call (334) 598-9534 to schedule an initial consultation today.