How Joint Custody Is Decided In Court
When two parties cannot agree in court, the court make take the reigns and make decisions for you to settle disputes. These decisions are based on what the court deems to be in the best interest of the families involved. Best case scenario, the court enters a joint custody agreement that allows the child to maintain a close relationship with both parents, as long as it is in the best interest and welfare of the child.
Several factors are considered before this ruling is made.
- The ability to provide for the child
- The childs relationship and closeness with each parent
- Each parents acceptance of the other party being responsible for the child
- Each parent being willing to provide for the child
- What the child could gain from maintaining a relationship with each parent
- Projected development
- Collaboration between the parties to follow a parenting plan
- Distance between each parties residence
- Willingness to not be intrusive of the other parent
Courts are not biased, so they will review these factors through a different lense so to speak. They will also factor in anything that may be harmful to the child.
The Child’s Best Interest
Every family dynamic is different and unique in it’s own way. That is to say, that just because a court rules in one way on a particular case, does not mean it will be that way across the board. Courts become advocates for childrento determine how joint custody is decided. Aside from everything we have currently listed, the court will also consider things such as health care, education, sports, religion, and other determining factors that are in the best interest of the child(ren) involved. This is the best way for children to have a better life going forward after a divorce.
Contact A Family Law Attorney
If you are going through a divorce and have questions for how joint custody is decided, or how it might affect your case, call Charles McCaskey now. He is standing by and ready to help give you the guidance you need to get through your divorce and custody case.