How does the court decide on a custody arrangement?

In South Carolina, the court looks at many factors in determining a custody arrangement. Generally, it is assumed that it is in the best interest of the child or children involved to have both parents involved in their upbringing. When deciding on a custody arrangement, the court will typically consider the child’s age, health, and emotional bond with each parent. The court will also consider the parents’ respective history with the child, such as how involved each one has been in the child’s life. In addition, the court will weigh any history of drug or alcohol abuse, domestic violence or criminal records. The court will also generally consider the parents’ respective ability to provide a stable and safe environment for the child. This includes taking into account which parent has more time and resources to dedicate to the role of a custodial parent. The court may consider the proximity of the parents’ respective homes, in order to determine whether it is physically feasible to divide the child’s time evenly. Ultimately, the court seeks to determine a custody arrangement that is in the best interest of the child. The court carefully considers the family dynamics and other factors such as school, friends, and extracurricular activities when considering which arrangement is best. The court looks to create a balanced custody arrangement that allows both parents to be involved in the child’s upbringing, while promoting stability and creating a safe environment.

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