How Does NJ Decide Child Custody?

Divorce is a stressful experience. Divorces with children may be even more stressful. We understand the pressures you may be facing when your marriage is ending. Our lawyers know you only want the best for your family.

The empathetic family law attorneys at Moskowitz Law Group are here to guide you through the process. We can help you understand how New Jersey courts decide child custody matters.

The Best Interests of the Child are Paramount

In any custody case in New Jersey, the Court is primarily concerned with the best interests of the child.

Regardless of gender, both parents are treated equally when determining child custody. In fact, New Jersey’s public policy says that it is usually in the child’s best interests to have frequent and continuing contact with both their mother and father. Thus, the Court favors joint custody arrangements, whenever possible.

Factors that Affect Child Custody in New Jersey

The Court considers a variety of factors when making child custody determinations. The factors include:

• The parents’ ability to agree, communicate, and cooperate on matters concerning the child
• Each parent’s willingness to accept custody and whether either parent has been unwilling to allow the other parent to have time with the child
• The child’s relationship with and quality and quantity of time spent with each parent
• Any history of domestic violence or other safety concerns
• The preferences of a child who is old and mature enough to state them
• The child’s needs
• Each parent’s employment obligations
• The home environment offered by each parent
• Each parent’s fitness to parent the child
• How far apart the parents live from each other
• The quality and continuity of the child’s education
• The child’s age

After examining these factors, the Court will make a determination regarding what it thinks is in the child’s best interests. It is important to give the Court all the information and evidence it will need to evaluate each factor.

Share Your Concerns About Child Custody with an Assertive Family Law Attorney

You can lean on Moskowitz Law Group’s skilled legal team’s strong voice and guiding hand throughout the custody process. Our experienced attorneys, many of which are certified by the New Jersey Supreme Court as matrimonial law attorneys have a deep and personal understanding of what you are going through.

We understand that you do not want to lose custody of your children. Reach out our office today to schedule your free, virtual consultation with a member of our team.