You will hear many words and phrases during divorce and child custody proceedings. Some of them you may already understand, but others might be a bit confusing.
For example, family courts often reference the “best interests of the child” standard during child custody considerations, but what does that mean? After all, judges know little about your kids and their needs.
Experience and knowledge inform their decisions
Of course, no family court can know as much about your children as you and your co-parent. However, if the two of you can’t reach an agreement on child custody and need to leave the matter to a judge, they will typically examine a range of relevant factors to create a custody arrangement that meets the best interests of the child standard in Georgia.
- Parental employment schedules
- Home environment of both parents
- History of violent crimes (either parent)
- Bond between the child and each parent
- Physical and mental health of each parent
- Evidence related to substance abuse (either parent)
- Emotional ties between the child and other family members
The judge will also take any recommendations by court-appointed guardians ad litem and custody evaluators into account when applicable.
The above list is by no means complete. In addition to the general factors above, judges examine unique issues and individual situations to arrive at a personalized child custody order.
Not a perfect system
Courts consist of humans who are as susceptible to errors as everyone else. Having experienced legal guidance can help you fight for a child custody arrangement that meets the needs of your kids.
