When a married couple with children gets divorced, they will have a lot to figure out. One of the biggest issues is that of child custody. Sometimes, custody can be determined through mediation. But, often, both parents feel differently about what is best for their kids. In cases like these, custody may be left up to the decision of the court. A New Jersey court will evaluate multiple factors and create a custody arrangement. This decision will be made with the child’s best interests in mind. Sometimes, a parent will be deemed unfit and will not be awarded custody of his or her child. Other times both parents will be awarded custody but one parent will lose custody. If you were not awarded custody, or you were awarded custody but lost it, you may still be able to get custody in the future. Read on for more information.
How Does the Court Determine Custody?
A New Jersey court will look at many different factors when it comes to determining a custody arrangement, including:
- You and your former spouse’s ability to financially support the child
- Whether you and your former spouse can adequately raise your child
- Whether you and your former spouse live in close proximity to one another
- Your child’s age and health
- Whether your child has any special needs
- If your child is old/mature enough, whether he or she has a preference
Why do Parents Lose Custody?
Parents can lose custody for a variety of reasons. Some of these reasons include:
- Neglect
- Physical abuse of the child
- Mental/emotional abuse of the child
- Domestic violence
- Alcohol and drug abuse
- Child abduction
- Unwillingness to co-parent
Can I Win Back Custody?
Losing custody of a child can be devastating, but it does not have to be permanent. If you have lost custody of a child, you will need to contact a skilled and dedicated family law attorney. An attorney can help you figure out what went wrong and how you can get back on track.
If you have lost custody of your child, contact our firm today to speak with an experienced family law attorney. We are here to walk you through all of your family law matters and act as your advocate.
Contact our experienced Ocean City firm
Matters of divorce and family law require the attention and skill of an experienced attorney who will fight for your future. Not only is your financial well-being at stake, but in a divorce, both you and your children’s emotional well-being are at risk as well. If you need a divorce and family law attorney in Ocean County, New Jersey, please do not hesitate to contact the Law Office of Sarina Gianna, LLC today to schedule a consultation.
