How To Decide on Custody in a Las Vegas Divorce?
When a marriage or other relationship ends and the couple has shared children, it becomes necessary to create a custody agreement. The custody arrangement must address both physical custody as well as legal custody.
For most parents who end relationships, the issue of custody is one of the most important things to resolve. You need to understand how to decide on custody issues so that you can protect your relationship with your kids. An experienced Las Vegas divorce lawyer at Pintar Albiston, LLP can help you to make the family law system work for you and your children. Call today to learn more about the legal services our experienced attorneys can provide.
How Does a Judge Decide on Custody Issues in Nevada?
Any time a relationship ends, it is always best to decide on custody issues without actually involving a judge. A child’s parents know what makes sense for their family and should work together to come to an agreement that offers children stability, love and support. A mediator can facilitate communications between parents who have difficulty coming to an agreement. A Las Vegas divorce lawyer can also assist clients in understanding the laws on custody and what a reasonable custody arrangement would be under the circumstances.
If there is no way for parents to come to an agreement, then the issue of custody must come before a judge. Under Nevada law, a judge will decide on custody issues by considering a number of different factors. The goal is always to do what is in the best interests of the child. As a result, the judge is said to decide on a custody arrangement using the best interests of the child standard.
To decide what arrangement makes the most sense, the judge may consider:
- The opinion of the child, if he or she is old enough to make an informed choice.
- The role each parent has played in caring for the child and whether either parent was a primary caregiver.
- The willingness of each parent to help the child to foster ongoing relationships with the other parent and with extended family.
- The ability of each parent to provide a stable, supportive and loving home.
Witnesses may be presented by each of the parents in a custody dispute to help a judge make an informed choice. You must make a compelling argument for your preferred custody arrangement if you want the judge to side with you.
What Does a Judge Decide on Custody Issues?
As Clark County courts explain, when a judge is asked to decide on custody issues, he must determine who has physical custody and who has legal custody.
- Physical custody refers to the ability to care for the child. The child will live with, and be cared for by, the parent with physical custody.
- Legal custody refers to the right to make important decisions for the child. This may include where a child goes to school, what medical treatment he receives and what his or her religious upbringing is.
It is common for parents to share physical and legal custody; however, each custody arrangement is designed to meet a specific family’s needs. Pintar Albiston, LLP understands that your custody case is unique to your family and is important to your future. Let us help with your case. Call or contact us online today to speak with a member of our legal team and learn more.