How does the court decide in a contested custody case?

In a contested child custody case in Washington state, the court must determine the best interests of the child or children. To do this, the court considers several factors, including the child’s past and current physical, educational, and emotional needs. The court must also look at the child’s relationship with each parent and the ability of each parent to provide a safe, stable, and loving environment. Additionally, the court must take into account any potential domestic violence, substance abuse, or other criminal behavior by either parent. The court will also consider the wishes of the child, if the child is mature enough to express his or her own opinion. This is usually done through a court-appointed attorney or guardian ad litem who will talk to the child and report back to the court. The court can also consider how each parent has previously cared for the child and how each parent relates to the child. Evidence may come from school records, medical records, intentions of where the child will live, and other forms of relevant information. In the end, the court will decide what is in the best interest of the child based on all the evidence presented. The court’s goal is to make sure the child has a happy and healthy relationship with both parents, if that is deemed to be in the best interests of the child.

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