In Texas, family law courts use the best interests of the child as the main guiding principle when awarding primary child custody to a parent. Several factors are examined to determine which parent is better suited to provide a happy and stable environment for the child. To learn more about how to meet these requirements, consult with a Richardson child custody lawyer.
Family law courts will look at several key factors when deciding which household will best meet a child’s emotional, physical, and mental needs:
- whether there is any history of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse and neglect;
- the physical and mental health of each parent;
- the employment status and financial standing of each parent;
- the preference of the child, usually given more weight if they are over 12 years of age;
- the emotional bond shared between parent and child, as well as which parent was the primary caregiver prior to the dispute;
- any alcohol or substance abuse issues, past or present;
- whether the child has any special needs and the ability of each parent to meet them;
- the willingness and desire of each parent to satisfy the child’s educational, cultural, physical, social, moral, and emotional needs; and
- the ability of each parent to encourage a healthy relationship with the other parent.
A Richardson Child Custody Lawyer Can Guide You Through the Process
Even in the best of circumstances, pursuing primary child custody in family court can be a physically and emotionally exhausting journey. At the law firm of Warren & Migliaccio, we understand this and will strive to ease the burden of divorce and child custody proceedings by advising you each step of the way. Protect your parental rights by discussing your case with our attorneys today, call 1-888-584-9614.