A divorce is difficult for all parties involved; adding child custody questions to the situation complicates matters even more. If you’re facing a dissolution of marriage and there are kids involved, it’s good to educate yourself about the laws and process in advance. The behavior and lifestyle you choose from the moment you decide to separate can impact the outcome regarding visitation and guardianship.

Top 5 Factors Impacting Child Custody

1. Parental Wishes

Adults have different views on how involved they want to be in their children's lives. Some disputes are easily resolved with joint legal custody; for instance, in this case, major decisions about the child’s welfare, health, and education are made by both parents. Matters get more complicated if each parent wants sole custody.

2. Prior Records

If an individual has instances of abuse, violence, or neglect counting against them, chances are the other parent will gain sole custody. These factors may also impact visitation. For example, if a parent is deemed a threat in any way, visits may only be allowed with the presence of a social worker.

3. The Parents’ Health

In general, the court will factor in the mental and physical health of each parent. If one has been shown to struggle with emotional issues, like anger management, it may work against them. The aim is to ensure that the parent is fit and able to take care of the child’s needs.

4. Adult Work Obligations

In addition to ensuring that parents are mentally and physically able to care for a kid, the courts must also check they have the time needed to raise a child. If a parent works too much or travels frequently for their career, this can be a challenge.

5. The Child’s Preferences

In some cases, a judge may want to speak with the child when it comes to custody disputes. This is to get a sense of the quality of the little one’s relationship with each parent and their preferences. However, it usually applies only to kids who are at least 13 of age.

If you’re involved in a child custody dispute in Wadesboro, NC, seek legal counsel with Bates Law Firm PLLC. They’ll help you argue your case and provide mediation to resolve the issue as efficiently as possible. The firm serves Anson, Richmond, Stanly, and Union Counties. You can learn more about the team online. To schedule a consultation today, call (704) 694-0195.