Under the case of Taylor v. Taylor, the court considers the following factors in determining whether to award joint custody or in the alternative sole legal custody. The Factors that the court must consider are as follows:
Factors for Custody Taylor v. Taylor 306 Md. 290 (1986)
1. The fitness of the parents current Relationship with the child
2. The Character and Reputation of the parties
3. The requests of each parent and the sincerity of the requests:
4. Any agreements between the parties
5. Willingness of the parties to share physical custody
6. Each parent’s ability to maintain the child’s relationship with the other parent, siblings’ relatives
and any other person who may psychologically affect the child’s best interest.
7. The age and number of children each parent has in the household.
8. The preference of the child when the child is of sufficient age and capacity to form a rational judgment.
9. The Geographic Proximity of the parent’s residence and opportunities for time with each parent.
10. The ability of each parent to obtain a stable and appropriate home for the child.
11. Ability of Each parent to establish a Home for the child:
12. Financial Status of Each Party-
13. Demands of parental employment:
14. Age health and sex of the child:
15. The relationship between each child and the parent:
16. Length of Separation from parent:
17. Whether there was a prior voluntary abandonment or surrender or custody of the child:
18. Potential disruption of child’s social and school life: Impact of state or federal assistance:
19. Benefit of parent having from sole physical and sole legal:
20. Any other consideration Based on the totality of the circumstances
In each matter involving custody, the main focus of the court is what is in the child’s/children’s bests interest of the child/children. If you are in need of an attorney relating to custody, The Law Office of Lynndolyn Mitchell PC and Lynndolyn Mitchell Esq. is exceptionally qualified to represent you in your matter.
