The decisions you make concerning your time with the children of your marriage (or dating relationship) may effect your
life for years to come in ways you never could have anticipated without counsel of a knowledgable attorney.
Know the difference between legal custody and physical custody before you enter the court room. Don't be lulled
into temporary arrangements against your wishes to appease a combative spouse.
Remember that property and money can always be replaced. Your relationship with your child is priceless.
Factors in Child Custody Disputes:
the parents' ability to agree, communicate and cooperate
in matters relating to the child;
the parents' willingness to accept custody and any history of unwillingness to allow parenting time not based
on substantiated abuse;
the interaction and relationship
of the child with its parents' and siblings;
the history of domestic violence,
if any;
the safety of the child and
the safety of either parent from physical abuse by the other parent;
the preference of the child
when of sufficient age and capacity to reason so as to form an intelligent decision;
the needs of the child;
the stability of the home
environment offered;
the quality and continuity
of the child's education;
the fitness of the parents;
the geographical proximity of the parents' homes;
the extent and quality of
the time spent with the child prior to or subsequent to the separation;
the parents' employment responsibilities;
and
the age and number of the children.
