What does “Best Interests of the Child” Mean?

Of paramount importance to a Family Court judge will be determining the “best interests of the child” (opens in a new tab) in determining child custody and visitation. This important concept doesn’t have a set definition but is instead determined on the facts of each individual case. Judges have broad discretion in examining a situation to determine what type of custody/visitation arrangement is best for the child.

If possible, it may be best for parents to work out a custody and visitation arrangement to present to the court. Because these matters can be so contentious if litigated, it can save a couple significant amounts of money if they can settle. Of course, in some cases an agreement is not possible and will require attorneys to litigate on each party’s behalf.

Some factors the court will look at can include the circumstances of each parent (the types of job each party has, their financial situation, etc.), the child’s relationship to other siblings, the ability of the parent to provide for the child, and the ability of the parents to cooperate with one another to raise their child. The totality of these circumstances will ultimately determine what kind of custody and/or visitation arrangement works best for the family in question.

Because these matters are so dependent upon the individual circumstances of the family, it is important to have a child custody attorney who will strongly advocate for your interests. At The Law Offices of Seidner & Associates, we will aggressively fight for you and your children and work to achieve the best possible outcome for your particular case. If you are involved in a child custody dispute or have another divorce issue, contact The Law Offices of Seidner & Associates today for a complimentary consultation.