Custody Determination: What will the Court consider in awarding custody?
The Judge’s considerations will vary depending on whether the issue is initial custody, modification of custody, relocation of the child, etc. However, in general, in determining initial custody between parents of the child, the Court considers twelve factors to determine the custody arrangement that serves the best interests of the child. Following is a list, in no certain order, of the factors the Court may consider: The love, affection, and other emotional ties between each party and the child. The capacity and disposition of each party to give the child love, affection, and spiritual guidance and to continue the education and rearing of the child. The capacity and disposition of each party to provide the child with food, clothing, medical care, and other material needs. The length of time the…