Child custody can be one of the most challenging aspects of divorce. While you may have your own idea of how things should go, the courts will reach some conclusions independent of your opinion.
When you understand how the court views “best interests,” and what that means, you may have a better understanding of what will happen.
Continuity of stable lifestyle
A stable lifestyle will make a considerable difference in your children’s ability to overcome the difficulties of divorce. If your children enjoyed a stable routine during your marriage, it should be a priority to keep things as unchanged as possible. The courts will assess your children’s standard of living and relationships with those close to them in assessing their best interests.
Safety, physical and mental health
The state also prioritizes the safety of your children and whether the environment they dwell in will remain free of abuse, neglect and abandonment. According to the Michigan Legislature, this also means that your children need to be in an environment free of violence even if the perpetrator never directed that violence toward your children.
Availability of unconditional love
Your children need to feel your love for them now more than ever before. The courts will assess both your and your partner’s ability to continue providing unconditional love in the wake of a split. Your diligence in giving time to your children and helping them understand their emotional needs can make a considerable difference in their ability to bounce back from a divorce.
The best interests of your children will help the court assess the most reasonable and appropriate custody arrangement during your divorce.
