When separating from a spouse or partner, making sure children still have a loving, supportive home is a priority. That’s why attorneys experienced in family law help clients map out child custody terms during divorces and legal separations. This guide will help you understand what courts consider when determining child custody and how you can increase the odds of a favorable outcome. 

Factors That Influence Child Custody

The court determines which parent will have full legal and/or physical custody of a child or whether both parents will share the responsibilities. If one parent is granted sole physical custody, the other will have visitation rights. Although courts generally prefer granting joint custody agreements so that both parents can maintain the same relationship with a child and have a say in their upbringing, there are some instances when sole custody is the best option.

A family court judge will take into account how well each parent gets along with the child, as well as the child’s wishes. The court will also review each parent’s income statements and additional financial information to determine who is in a better position to pay for the child’s expenses. When determining what’s in the best interest of the kid, the judge will favor the parent who can tend to the child’s physical and emotional needs and provide a consistent routine.

How to Improve the Chances of Getting Custody

To strengthen the chances of being awarded custody, an attorney will recommend documenting everything pertaining to your relationship with your child. This should include daily schedules of pickup and drop-off times, events you attend together, and anything else that establishes your role as a loving, supportive parent.

An attorney can also arrange for a child custody evaluation by a mental health professional, who will evaluate your role as a parent and make custody recommendations to the court based on their findings. Don’t get caught up in discussing your ex-partner’s parenting skills. This way, you won’t lose sight of making the court aware of your own abilities as a caretaker.

For help with child custody matters, contact the attorneys at Zebley, Mehalov & White, P.C. in Uniontown, PA. Since 2001, the firm has been handling bankruptcy, family, real estate, and social security law cases for clients throughout Fayette, Washington, Greene, and Westmoreland counties. Learn more about each attorney online or call (724) 439-9200 for legal representation.