What Does the Term “Best Interests of the Child” Mean?
What Does the Term “Best Interests of the Child” Mean? We have heard the term numerous times, especially in custody cases that have taken the media by storm. For example, any child that Madonna has tried to adopt. But, what does the term “best interests of the child” really mean and who determines what a child’s best interest is?Answer: The term, “best interests of the child” is meant to describe the set of principles or factors that guide a court’s deliberation when assessing what decisions would keep a child safe and how best to meet a child’s needs, including custody. This term is used differently in each state and each state usually has its own criteria or set of principles or factors that guide a court’s deliberating process. Examples of principles and factors used in different court systems may include: • importance of birth family bonds and attachments, including siblings • importance of bonds with other ca
