Child’s safety & well-being Parent-child relationship Stability (home, school, routine) Parent’s ability to cooperate
Legal Custody: Decision-making (school, healthcare) Physical Custody: Where the child lives.
Headline: Joint Custody Isn’t Always 50/50 Key Point: Courts favor joint custody unless one parent is unfit.
Texas: Focus on "best interest," no gender bias. California: Prefers joint custody.
Child’s age & preference (if mature) – Parent’s mental/physical health History of abuse/drugs
Truth: Yes—if they’re actively involved. Courts don’t auto-favor moms. Visual: Father and child playing.
1. Document everything (texts, visits, expenses). 2. Avoid arguments in front of kids. 3. Show stability (job, home, school support).