Tag: temporary custody change
Child Custody Decisions in Pennsylvania
September 8, 2023Understanding Your Choices for the Best Chance at Success
Child custody decisions in Pennsylvania are determined by a court’s assessment of the best interests of the child, considering all relevant factors, including those factors listed in Section 5328 of the child custody statute. Among the 16 factors considered by the court is the “well-reasoned preference of the child, based on the child’s maturity and judgment.” It is important to highlight that the well-reasoned preference of a child is simply one of 16 factors a court must weigh when deciding a physical custody schedule that is in the best interests of a child. Therefore, although a child may express a preference in residing primarily with one parent over the other, that preference is considered along with all other factors, and a court may decide that the child’s preference is outweighed by more significant factors. This means that a court may not agree that the child’s desired preference is in their best interests, regardless of the child’s age or level of maturity.
COVID-19 and Child Custody in Pennsylvania
February 15, 2021It has been nearly a year since the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a world pandemic due to its spread throughout the world and the severity of the illness for some of the infected individuals. While the COVID-19 outbreak has affected every aspect of American life, it has brought new challenges for parents whose children are governed by a custody order.
A family living in an intact unit or single household face the challenges of creating effective social distancing plans, cleaning routines, and rules about masking. While this is difficult, coordinating between two households may seem impossible. However, with common sense, cooperation, and the guidance of health care providers, we can keep our children safe and connected with all members of their families.