If you need to resolve a child custody dispute in court, the judge will determine what’s in the best interest of the child. When awarding legal or physical custody and visitation, courts apply state family law requirements and exercise their discretion based on the facts and circumstances presented. Here are a few factors that influence judicial custody and visitation decisions in Connecticut. 

What Affects Child Custody Decisions Under Connecticut Family Law?

1. Developmental Needs

Courts recognize that children have different needs in their various stages of life. Also, some kids may require specialized care on a regular basis. Whether a parent is able to understand and meet the child’s physical, mental, and emotional needs makes a difference when courts are deciding on custody.

2. Expressed Preference

Under Connecticut family law, judges consider whether the child wants to live with a certain parent. Factors that impact how much a court relies on a child’s statements include the minor’s age, capacity to make judgments, and reasons they give for choosing one parent over the other. Judges look for evidence that suggests a parent is attempting to coax a child to make a choice.

3. Safe Environment

Ensuring a child’s safety and security at home and with their parents is a high priority for courts. Evidence of domestic violence, abuse, or neglect of a child, parent, spouse, or other household member is grounds for courts to modify the terms of custody. 

Judges can require supervised visitation, completion of a parenting program, and psychological counseling. A parent with drug or alcohol abuse or addiction problems may be ordered to undergo treatment to maintain or regain custody or visitation. 

Deciding contested custody cases is a complex process with outcomes that last for years. Attorneys at The Law Offices of Conti, Levy and Salerno, LLC in Torrington, CT, offer divorcing parents 75 years of collective experience in family law and seek the best possible outcome for each client’s situation. Learn more about the firm online or call (860) 482-4451 for an appointment.