How does the court decide on a custody arrangement?

The court decides on a custody arrangement based on what is in the best interests of the child or children. In Florida, the court will consider twelve factors when making a custody determination. The court will consider the moral fitness of both parents, the financial resources of both parents, the mental and physical health of each parent, the work schedule and lifestyle of each parent, the preference of the child if they are of sufficient age and maturity to make an informed decision, the length of time the child has had with each parent, the proximity of each parent’s residence, the willingness of each parent to allow the other parent frequent and continuing access to the child, the relationship each parent has with the child, the past behavior of the parent, the parental education levels, and whether there is a history of domestic violence in the family. In addition, the court will take into consideration any other factor it feels is relevant. The court wants to make sure a custody arrangement is fair to all parties involved and is in the best interests of the child or children.

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How does the court decide on a custody arrangement?

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