During any custody decisions, the court determines the best arrangement for your child by looking at a number of factors.
In the state of Minnesota, some of these include the child’s health problems, his or her preference of where to live and your cooperation in the process.
Health and safety
According to Minnesota Legislature Statutes, the best interests means the needs of the child come before any preferences you or your ex-spouse might have. Beyond emotional needs, safety and physical needs come first.
Any special medical or physical ailments that require a particular parent’s assistance are heavily considered in the final arrangement. Your house must also be a safe environment to raise a child. This means having adequate food and clothing, as well as no prior history of domestic violence.
Quality of social interactions
Asking a child to move schools, places of worship or neighborhoods in order to stay with a parent can also add unnecessary stress. You should always take into account what is best for maintaining a healthy environment for your child.
Being able to see grandparents or other siblings is important to a growing young adult’s emotional health. The age and developmental stage your son or daughter is in are also taken into account while determining how disruptive moving would be.
Cooperation and communication
As a co-parent, you need to be open to discussing issues that may occur for the sake of your child. The court notices the history of your time with your child and how you appear at the scheduled hearings. Your willingness to share information and work together with your ex-spouse are also taken into account.
