What Factors Affect Custody Rulings? Naples Child Custody Attorney Explains
Even amicable divorces can be legally complex. Asset division, alimony and other factors can make ending a marriage a complicated ordeal. When children are involved, the process can become emotionally charged if spouses fail to agree on custody or support. This is where a child custody attorney may be able to help.
If you are divorcing your spouse in Florida, then The Law Offices of Michael M. Raheb, P.A. can represent your financial and personal interests. As a Naples child custody lawyer, Mr. Raheb can evaluate your situation and help you avoid making critical mistakes. Call us today at 866-949-0888 to schedule a consultation.
In the meantime, read on to learn the factors that the judge will consider when making a child-custody ruling:
- Living Conditions and Situation
If you are applying for sole custody, then the judge will want to understand each parent’s living situation and the conditions of the home. He or she will check that the household is safe, stable and offers the best possible environment to raise the child.
The judge may also consider the location of the household in relation to the child’s school or extracurricular activities. If both spouses’ homes are close together, then the judge may consider a time-sharing plan that gives each parent a reasonable amount of time with the child.
Under certain circumstances, the judge will award custody to the parent who stays in the family home, but this is not necessarily the case. The judge may decide to award the family home to the custodial parent in order to ensure that the child lives in a stable environment. According to Florida Statutes, in cases such as these, the non-custodial parent may still need to contribute to the children’s living expenses.
- Parental Cooperation
The judge will also examine the nature of your relationship with the other parent, and consider the degree to which you are willing to work together. For this reason, it is not a good idea to badmouth the other parent.
Do not imply that you are not willing to cooperate during the divorce, and never ridicule your spouse in front of your children. It is a much better idea to work with the other parent and appear cooperative in front of the judge.
Other factors that may influence the custody arrangement include:
- Each parent’s history of abuse or neglect;
- The preferences of the children;
- Each parent’s relationship with the children before the divorce;
- And the children’s preferences.
If you and your spouse cannot agree on a child custody arrangement, then a judge will deliver a ruling based on the child’s best interests. There are several steps you can take that may improve the outcome of your case, and the best source of guidance in this matter is an experienced family attorney.
If you are considering a divorce or are facing a child custody battle, then contact the Law Offices of Michael M. Raheb, P.A. A Naples child custody attorney will evaluate your situation and represent your interests. To schedule a consultation, call us today at 866-949-0888.
