Divorce is never easy. It is especially difficult when children are involved. The younger the children, the more complicated it can be. Even in a friendly divorce in Georgia, working out child custody arrangements can be a major challenge and an increased stressor where none is needed.
In Georgia, a judge will most likely determine the final child custody agreement. It is wise to know the factors on which the judge will base his decision. Judges will generally focus on the best interest of the child (or children) when considering their decision.
Some factors that a judge will consider are the age of the child, keeping their routine consistent, parenting ability and the safety of the kids. Younger children require more care and more available time. If a child’s routine can continue as it was before the divorce, this contributes to the child’s sense of security and well-being. Safety is of paramount concern and will be given the highest consideration by the court. If one parent is seen as being more involved in the child’s life, that can also affect a judge’s decision.
In view of the above factors, a family facing divorce and child custody arrangements in Georgia may want to obtain legal assistance to ensure the best outcome for their child. An attorney can help the family during this trying time to develop the most adequate parenting plan possible for all parties involved. Legal counsel can increase the odds that a parent who is facing divorce will achieve the best outcome possible given his or her unique circumstances.
Source: thespruce.com, “Understand the “Best Interests of the Child” Standard“, Jennifer Wolf, Accessed on Feb. 26, 2018