How is custody determined in a military divorce?
In Washington, custody during a military divorce is determined in the same way as it is in any other divorce. This involves a judge’s evaluation of various factors, ultimately determining which of the parents will provide the best environment for the children. The judge will take into account considerations such as the stability of the parents, the ability of the parents to provide financially, the health of the parents, how well the children are doing academically, any history of substance abuse or criminal activity in either parent, and how well the parents get along and co-parent. If the children are over the age of twelve, they may be allowed to express their preferences as to whom they would like to reside with, with their opinion being taken into account. In cases where both parents are in the military, the judge will consider any complications that could arise from the parents being away for extended periods of duty. The judge will also consider any negative effects the deployment may have on the children. Ultimately, the judge will consider all of the circumstances of the case and will decide which parent will have the majority of the time with the children. The judge may also order joint custody with both parents sharing physical and legal custody, or may order shared custody, with both parents having equal time with the children.
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