If you recently decided to separate from your spouse, you may be wondering how the divorce will affect your children. During these proceedings, your attorney will work to determine a child custody arrangement that best suits everyone’s needs. However, if you and your ex-spouse cannot come to terms, the case will be brought before a judge. When this happens, they will weigh some of the factors listed below to decide on custody arrangements.

3 Factors That Influence the Outcome of Child Custody

1. Work Schedules

If one parent works late nights, weekends, or abroad, it’s more likely the court will place custody with the other adult. The judge will consider how your job impacts your time at home and your ability to be present for your children, both physically and emotionally. The courts will discuss how your role affects your mental health. For example, if your job causes anxiety or stress that impedes your ability to think clearly and care for your kids, they will likely opt to give your ex-spouse primary custody.

2. Child’s Preference

Although the courts will not solely base their decision off the child’s wishes, they will consider any preferences. The primary goal of determining custody arrangements is to minimize any feelings of instability or unhappiness within the family. If a child expresses a desire to live with another parent, the judge will likely want to do what they can to respect those wishes. 

3. Environment

The courts will also weigh factors like each parent’s distance from the child’s current school, the size of their living accommodations, the child’s proximity to friends or extracurricular activities, and the safety of the town each parent lives in. Ideally, the child won’t have to relocate to an uncomfortable living situation or change schools. If one of the parents can ensure this kind of stability, they will likely be awarded custody. 

If you need help determining a child custody arrangement, talk to the professionals at the Law Offices of Brian J De Lima. Based in Hilo, HI, this attorney has almost 35 years of experience handling all aspects of family law. As a recipient of the “Distinguished®” rating by Martindale-Hubbell® and Lawyers.com®, he is well-renowned for his quality representation. He will guide you through the custody process and ensure that you are heard and supported every step of the way. Visit his website to learn more about his services, and call (808) 969-7707 to schedule an initial consultation today.