(801) 254-9450 When there is a dispute over child custody or support, a judge resolves the matter. While the law allows two people to resolve most of the common divorce issues between themselves, anything related to children is an exception. When juveniles are involved, the court must make a decision that is in the child’s best interest.
Making that decision can be difficult. Determining the best interest of the child in South Jordan may seem subjective at first, but there is a long list of factors a judge must consider. At Carr | Woodall, our compassionate child custody attorneys work tirelessly to give you the best chance at a favorable custody decision.
Any time a judge in South Jordan is tasked with deciding on custody or child support, they must do so based on what is best for the child. There are guidelines set up for the judges to follow, but ultimately, it is their duty to determine what is appropriate for each family’s situation. There is a presumption that an even split in custody is what is best for the child unless there is evidence to suggest otherwise.
What many parents do not understand is that while their opinion matters, it is not the deciding factor in determining who gets custody or who is responsible for the financial obligations of a shared child. In fact, it is not uncommon for the final custody order to differ from each parent’s preferred outcome.
When deciding custody arrangements, South Jordan courts evaluate what is best for the child’s welfare based on the following elements.
The court will look at which parent has been more actively involved in the child’s daily life. This includes preparing meals, helping with schoolwork, attending medical appointments, and making important decisions. A history of consistent care can strongly influence the outcome.
Children thrive on routine, and judges aim to preserve that stability whenever possible. Courts often favor the parent who can provide a consistent home, school, and community environment. Major changes that disrupt a child’s established routine are typically avoided unless necessary.
If the child is mature enough, their opinion may be taken into account. While the child’s preference is not the deciding factor, it is one piece of the overall evaluation, especially if the child expresses a clear, well-reasoned desire.
The court examines each parent’s physical and mental health, ability to provide a safe home, and capacity to meet the child’s emotional and developmental needs. Any history of abuse or neglect will make a tremendous impact in a custody case.
The courts value cooperation. A parent’s ability to support the child’s relationship with the other parent can significantly impact custody outcomes. Judges favor arrangements that encourage healthy co-parenting.
If you are involved in a dispute over custody or support, you must understand the basics of determining the best interest of the child in South Jordan. Many factors are considered when a judge applies this standard, and the right attorney could present your case in a positive light to the court. At Carr | Woodall, we look forward to serving as your advocate in this important endeavor. Reach out today for a consultation.