How Is Child Custody Determined?

“How is custody determined in California? Well, generally speaking, it’s the best interest of the child.

It’s a bench trial. There’s no jury. How does the court make that determination? Many factors that might influence that determination are, is the child free from a parent with a mental health issue, a substance abuse problem, domestic violence? What’s generally considered to be in the best interests of a child? Going to school, doing well in school, getting medical attention.

These are pretty intuitive and simple things to consider, but quite frankly, it’s a very dense and convoluted topic matter. So if you’re concerned about getting a custody order in your favor, consider those things. Hire a good lawyer.”