What factors do courts look at to determine custody?
Custody determinations must be in the best interests of the child. Defining “best interests” for practical application usually involves examining particular factors. Factors that the court must examine may be codified. Examples of factors that courts usually must consider include the child’s age and wishes, the wishes of the parents, the ability of each parent to care for the child, the mental and physical health of each parent and the child, interaction with siblings or other persons, the child’s cultural background, any history of child or spousal abuse, the child’s adjustment to the current home and community, and the length of time the child has lived in a stable environment.
