When family law judges are awarding child custody, their primary concern is the children’s best interests. They must consider a variety of factors to determine the ideal arrangement. If you’re facing a custody battle, here’s what can influence the decision.

What Impacts Child Custody? 

1. The Children’s Relationship With Each Parent

Family law judges want to know how involved each party is in the children’s everyday lives. If one parent spends considerably more time with the kids, there’s a good chance the children will be more comfortable living with them. In addition to asking questions about the children’s daily routine, the court may have a social worker evaluate each party’s relationship with the kids so that the judge can make an informed decision. 

2. Each Parent’s Health & Wellbeing

If the children are still fairly young, caring for them is undoubtedly demanding. As such, the parent who receives primary custody needs to be up to the task.

If the kids happen to be older and more self-sufficient, each parent’s caretaking capabilities may not matter as much. Their emotional wellbeing will still play a role in the proceedings, though, since children need a stable home environment where they can thrive. 

3. Each Parent’s Work Obligations 

Logistically, it rarely makes sense to award custody to a parent who works 70 or 80 hours a week. Likewise, those who often go away on lengthy business trips may have a hard time securing primary custody. The demands of each parent’s job will influence the proceedings because they’ll ultimately have a major impact on the children’s everyday lives. 

If you want legal assistance during your child custody proceedings, contact Ferraro Kruk & Ferraro LLP in Brockway, PA. This full-service, family-run firm is comprised of seasoned lawyers who will use all the resources at their disposal to help you secure the best arrangement possible given the circumstances. To request a consultation with a family law attorney, reach out on their website or call (814) 268-2202.