A divorce is never an easy option for any couple. This term is not confined between the couple and their separation. Whether mere separation or divorce, multiple issues come up. Maybe, people would avoid thinking about it if they knew about the after-effects.
One of the critical decisions of divorce is child custody. Who to get the governance or pay for the child’s support? The court determines where the child can live safely with proper care until adulthood. But, with that, the parents have to know about the child’s best interest in custody cases.
What is the Child’s Best Interest?
Every child is the future of a nation. And, in a family, the most significant persona. Each parent wants to provide their children with proper guidance and the best facility possible. For that, they are even ready to sacrifice their interests.
All the things the parents compromise to ensure the safety, comfort, growth, success, and prosperity of their kids. More precisely, to make a way to a meaningful life. Also, at the same time, someone who brings welfare to society.
So, the best interest of a child would be the ground to raise him as an independent and good person. Is it so? Will the rest of the discussion support the idea? Let’s see.
What factors does the court scrutinize?
Obviously, there’s nothing particular about the factors for determining the child’s best interests in custody cases. If there were any, that wouldn’t help anyway because each case has unique characteristics and details. Still, some are considered, not as a legal practice but spontaneously. These are mentioned below-
- The child’s perspective
- History
- Cultural, religious or spiritual upbringing
- Benefit by building a relationship with the parents
- Interest and the ability of the parents in taking care of the child
- If there were any adverse history like violence or abuse
- Any criminal proceedings
Determining the Children’s Perspectives
Any decision has a future impact on the child, be it from the parents or the court. That is the reason things should be as full-proof as possible. There are different ways to assess the child’s best interest in custody cases.
If the age and maturity of the child are acceptable to the law or judge, they can also have their say. That’ll help the court with ideas but won’t be acceptable thoroughly or not even partially. Two dependable sources for the court are associated in the process-
- A child custody lawyer who would represent the child
- A child psychologist who’ll interview the child and submit a report that what is found through the discussion
What does the court expect as the best?
Standing on the eve of a family-breaking, a child mostly misses the attention and love from parents. It helps them grow in confidence and happiness.
While there’s only one choice with zero alternatives, the focus will automatically fall upon parental management. That’ll include education, upbringing, facilities, extracurricular activities, chances of social involvement, etc.
Naturally, both parents are supposed to be sincere in this. But, the court has to choose one over another after an observation.
Interestingly, the custody shouldn’t necessarily be under a single parent. Even if the parents are separated, they can have a mutual agreement, and both can have custody which is called joint custody.
So, what do you think now? Isn’t it best for the child has communicated with both the parents and receive affection from both ends? That requires just having trust with the ex.
What is the best time for relocation?
The judge usually doesn’t allow relocating. Because s/he may assume or the situation may suggest the parent is doing this for limitations the other parent’s access to the child.
However, if the relocating appears to be better for the child, like a better opportunity, it might be allowed. That can be regarding better education or a better support system. But, that has to be demonstrated properly.
The court expects the parents to compete with each other on the custody matter. The best interest of the child is the most crucial factor. The court would prefer anything before handing over the child.
N.B.: There may be no need for the relocation if the current parent is proven good enough for the child.
Resolving Child Custody Dispute
The personal collision between the spouses is never good for the child. It should be resolved at the very first hand, at least for the child’s sake.
- Children are sensitive about the relationship between their parents. They feel proud and confident if they notice a good vibe among the parents. On the other hand, any negative impression does not only make them volatile but also influences their behaviour critically.
- Avoid any adverse activities to show low the other person. It will never be helpful for the child, rather a strong tool against you in court. It would be wise to focus on the parenting plan.
- Be careful at the time of preparing a divorce or separation agreement. Try to make it as amicable as possible. State clearly what you want about your child and your stand for them.
- Help your ex-spouse or the spouse who’s staying at a distance. The help and support will re-vibe and, in the end, will be beneficial for your child.
- Try to keep the family traditions and programs unchanged and uniform. That’ll be comfortable for your child. Consider adding a new routine or occasion to create positive memories.
- Take help and advice from your family lawyer, who has knowledge and experience on the matter.
Don’t Keep Your Child Away from Their Parent
Unless your ex-spouse is harmful to your child, don’t ever consider creating distance between them. A child needs both the mother’s and father’s care and support. Also, a parent has the right to have the company of their children, and divorce or separation is not enough to terminate the relationship.
The process of divorce might not be a serious issue for all. Still, it doesn’t need the certification that the children are victims of it. What is rest for them as the last hope is- the parents as always. That’s obviously not to be being in the distance but as a family.
While separation is not easy for adults to cope with, it needs a shield to keep away from a child’s reach. At least, it can be less visible, not as acute as it is.
Final Words
Parents’ one of the biggest investments is in the child. The investment has no risks but lots of responsibilities. Breaking a relationship can affect other relationships too. But, some relationships are worth fighting for, and nothing can stand in between them.
No one knows how desperate a single parent can be for their child. Let not the emotion drive the parent to make the wrong decision for the little prince or princess. The child’s best interest in custody cases lies in proper knowledge and the right steps.
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