4 Factors That Hinder a Child Custody Decision

The process of determining child custody can be an emotional and challenging ordeal for everyone involved. It’s a sensitive matter that requires careful consideration of the child’s best interests and thoughtful decision-making. As you prepare for your court hearing, expand your understanding of the factors that hinder a child custody case. 

Refusal To Cooperate With Court Orders

Courts establish specific rulings to ensure the child’s well-being and maintain order throughout the process. When a parent disregards these arrangements, it can lead to severe consequences. For instance, if a parent consistently fails to adhere to visitation schedules, this may prompt the other party to file for contempt of court.

A judge could view this noncompliance as a signal that the offending parent may not have the child’s best interests at heart, thus influencing the final custody decision. The severity of these charges can vary, but in worst-case scenarios, they can lead to loss of custody.

Substance Abuse

Another factor that can greatly affect a child custody decision is ongoing substance abuse by a parent. A history of drug or alcohol abuse raises serious concerns about a parent’s ability to provide their child with a safe, stable environment.

Courts often require accused or guilty parents to take drug tests as part of the custody evaluation process. If a parent refuses to comply or tests positive for illegal substances, this can be detrimental to their case. It may result in limited or supervised visitation and, in extreme cases, loss of custody.

Parental Alienation

All parents need to understand the effects of parental alienation on children, as children benefit from healthy, loving relationships with both caretakers. When one parent seeks to undermine this bond, it can significantly affect the child’s perception of that and the overall dynamics of the family unit. 

If your coparent exhibits signs of parental alienation, documenting this behavior and bringing it to the court’s attention are crucial. Custody cases are all about making the child’s best interest a priority.

Child Endangerment

The safety and welfare of the child are paramount in any custody dispute. Cases of child endangerment can range from abuse to neglect to provide basic needs such as food, shelter, and medical care. Due to this, it’s best to understand the different types of lawyers and what they do to ensure the case moves more smoothly. A family law attorney will advocate for the best interests of you and your child. If you have reason to believe your child is in danger with your ex, your attorney will work with you to collect evidence of this.

In extreme cases, the court may entirely remove the child from the parent’s custody for the child’s protection. The court will not make this decision lightly—it will thoroughly evaluate all evidence presented before making a final determination. By putting the child’s well-being first, the court aims to ensure the child lives in the best possible environment.