When parents go through a divorce, the first thing on everyone's mind is where the children will end up living. The court's determination depends on a number of factors, and it's not always possible to predict what they'll mandate. Before you hire a child custody attorney, here are a few of the determining factors of custody.

3 Factors That Influence Child Custody

1. The Majority Caregiver

When trying to determine what custody will look like for children during a divorce, the court's main priority is making sure that the children are happy and cared for. To figure out how fit each parent is to provide for the children, the court will look at who has been the majority caregiver up to this point. They will examine who provides the physical and social care that children need, such as education, transportation, and nutrition. If one parent has done the lion's share of this work throughout the children's lives, they will be considered the majority caregiver. 

2. The Child's Wishes

Once children have reached a certain age, the court will also ask them for statements on their preferred living situation. The court doesn't defer to children by default, but they will consider how fulfilling a child's preferences can lead to positive outcomes or how not meeting those preferences may cause distress. 

3. Parent Health and Wellness

However the court decides to dictate custody, they need to be sure that any adult who will take care of the children will also be physically and mentally capable of doing so. Parents that will struggle to care for children because of physical or mental health issues may find it difficult to receive full or even partial custody of their children.

If you're looking for a child custody attorney to help with your divorce, reach out to Ronald D. Zipp, Attorney at Law in New Braunfels, TX. This experienced and professional child custody attorney will help you build a case to retain custody of your children. Learn more about the law office's services online, and call (830) 629-5600 to schedule a consultation.