Craig Zotter & Associates
The Best Interest of the Child
In Pennsylvania custody proceedings, the role of the Court is to determine what is in the
best interest of the child. The Court considers the child's physical, educational, spiritual and emotional
needs when making this determination. Significant factors considered can include:
- Status Quo is possibly the most significant custody factor considered. The most recent day to day schedule
and parent duties is highly relevant. the court is not anxious to change the day to day schedule of a child
who is flourishing. Fox example, a child doing well academically would likely needs a compelling reason to be
removed from that school district in mid school year.
- Child's Preference becomes significant when the child is able to reason as to what is truly in their best
interest. A teenage child's opinion is usually considered more relevant than that of a six year old. However,
the motive of the teenager will be closely examined so as to avoid simply favoring a parent that would allow
the teenager free reign to do as they wished.
- New Relationships, between parent and significant other, are generally not relevant in custody proceedings.
It becomes relevant when the new relationship has a positive or negative impact on the child's life.
Additional factors used to determine the best interest of the child include:
* Parental duties performed by each parent on behalf of the child
* The child's sibling relationships
* Stability in child's education and family life
* Which parent fosters a better relationship between parents and child
* Availability of the extended family......and more
Each custody matter is unique and requires detailed attention. Some of the more emotional issues, including contentious parents, relocation, grandparents, or unmarried and same-sex couples, are litigated and resolved everyday by the Attorneys and Craig Zotter & Associates. You can trust that our attorneys have the knowledge, experience and skill to fight for your rights and your future.