31Mar 2022 by Pat Geddie
What Does the “Best Interests of the Child” Mean?

What Does the “Best Interests of the Child” Mean?

Child Custody
The law protects the interests of children in many ways, and one way is by setting standards for child custody arrangements. The standard in California is that the custody arrangement must be in the best interests of the child. This standard applies when: Parents agree to custody arrangements, and the court reviews the proposal to ensure it is in the best interests of the child.Parents cannot agree, so the court must issue a custody order for the parents.One or both parents wants to modify child custody. What does the court look for when ensuring custody is in the child’s best interests? Many factors can be weighed, depending on the circumstances. Some factors include: The child’s needs, including special needsEach parent's ability to meet the needs of the childWhere each parent…
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11Oct 2021 by Pat Geddie
Can Your Child Choose Their Custody Arrangement?

Can Your Child Choose Their Custody Arrangement?

Child Custody
Custody cases can be difficult, as parents might have their relationships with their child in the hands of the court. Courts must consider many factors to determine what type of arrangement is in the best interests of the child, and many parents wonder whether the child’s opinion and preference will play a role in the decision. The answer is that sometimes, a court will consider the preference of the child. However, the court will still make its own decision and will not automatically follow what the child wants. Is the Child Old and Mature Enough? The law in California assumes that a child age 14 or older has the right to be heard regarding their preferences. However, younger children might have the maturity and ability to give a well-reasoned opinion…
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