During and after divorce, child custody can be a source of conflict between the parents. This topic often includes arrangements involving the child, which might be difficult to define if the parents have contradicting opinions on how to raise their child. If the disputes become too intense, the court can intervene and help settle these issues appropriately.
However, a judge cannot make these decisions without a sound basis. They must review the case details and consider several factors before making decisions. Specific considerations regarding the child’s best interests have value in this process, including the following:
- The child’s relationship with each parent
- Each parent’s ability and willingness to serve as the child’s carer
- Financial capacities of parents to provide basic needs
- The permanence of the child’s living arrangements, including other aspects of their life
- Each parent’s physical, mental and moral wellbeing
- Welfare and disposition of the child, often backed up by medical and school records
The court is also responsible for determining an arrangement that balances the child’s needs and parental rights. If evidence shows a parent is prone to keeping the child from the other party, a judge could enforce conditions to address these issues. The court can consider any case detail before deciding what happens next.
Addressing what the family needs
These factors and other guidelines are essential for a judge to make fair child custody and parenting time decisions while prioritizing the child’s welfare. The court is often impartial but serves as the child’s advocate if the case involves any safety risks. In these instances, a judge must protect the child from harm, allowing them to limit parenting time if necessary. Making these arrangements can be a significant undertaking, but all the effort could be necessary to help address the family’s needs.