How Is Child Custody Determined?
Child custody is one of the many significant issues couples face during divorce. From the court’s perspective, the only guiding principle is to make the decision that is best for the child, despite how much parents may disagree.
A child custody lawyer can help you understand the law and devise the best possible case to help you get the outcome you desire.
In this blog post we’ll look at a few of the issues a judge considers when awarding child custody. For more information, visit FAQs about child custody.
State law
Most states have laws that provide a basic framework for how child custody should work in most cases.
In Nevada, the law assumes that joint custody is in the best interest of the child. Usually, parents share legal custody, meaning they share the right to make education, medical, and other important decisions, and that one parent gets physical custody, meaning that his or her home is the primary residence for the child.
However, many factors may make a judge determine that joint custody is not an ideal solution.
Domestic abuse
Past domestic abuse against anyone in the family can weigh heavily on child custody proceedings.
If you or your children have been the victim of domestic abuse by your spouse, then your child custody lawyer may attempt to argue that shared custody and visitation are inappropriate.
The courts will consider things like when the domestic abuse occurred and whether it was an isolated incident or a pattern of behavior.
Stability of Home Environment
When making determinations about physical custody and visitation, the courts consider the stability of each home. Factors include whether children can stay on their usual schedules in the home, whether the home is clean and safe, and who else lives in or visits the home.
Child Custody Lawyers in Nevada
Smith Legal Group can be your guide through the child custody process. We will fight for the best interests of your child in Nevada custody matters. Whether you’re trying to obtain sole custody or joint custody, please contact our Henderson, NV office at 702-410-5001 to request a free consultation.
Disclaimer: The information in this blog post is provided for general informational purposes only, and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information contained in this blog post should be construed as legal advice. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting on the basis of any information included in this blog post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue.