What factors does the court consider when determining custody?

When a court determines custody in Florida, they consider many different factors. These factors typically involve what is best for the child and taking the child’s wishes into consideration. Generally, the court will look at the parents’ income, ages, and health, any history of domestic violence, the physical and mental health of the child, the parents’ ability to work together and put the child’s needs ahead of their own, and each parent’s ability to provide a stable home. More specifically, the court will typically consider the following factors: the capacity of the parents to create a loving, stable, nurturing, and secure relationship with the child, each parent’s home environment, the ability of each parent to provide a secure home, the health of all involved, any history of domestic violence, the psychological and social needs of the child, and the ability of each parent to provide appropriate care and discipline for the child. The court also looks at the preferences of the child, taking into account the age and maturity of the child. If the child is old enough to express an opinion on the matter, the court will typically weigh it heavily when making their decision. The court also looks at the current living situation of the child, as well as any current or historical relationships with siblings, extended family, and other significant persons. In addition, the court considers any relevant evidence, and may also appoint an attorney or guardian ad litem to represent the interests of the child. Ultimately, the court strives to create an arrangement that is in the best interests of the child, and takes into consideration all available evidence when making their decision.

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What factors does the court consider when determining custody?

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