How does custody get decided as between a parent and a third party?
Third parties may be granted custody of minor children, but this generally occurs only in extreme cases where the parents have been determined to be unfit or unable to be granted custody (i.e. in jail, etc). In Missouri, “the best interest of the child”is the determining factor in deciding which party is granted custody of minor children. Courts have several factors to consider in making this determination, including the following: • the wishes of the parties • the wishes of the child(ren) • the child’s relationship and interaction with others (the parties, siblings, others) • the child’s adjustment to his/her home, community, school, etc. • mental and physical health of the parties • any history of abuse • felony sexual offense of a party (Court cannot grant custody to that party) • the child’s need for a continuing relationship with parents • either party’s intent to relocate out of Missouri • which parent is more likely to allow the child visitation with the other parent Notably ab
