When a couple ends their marriage, many different hurdles surface. Some couples have difficulty due to financial issues, while others have an especially hard time dealing with custody matters. Moreover, child custody issues vary from one family to the next and there are certain factors that have a significant impact on how custody is awarded. For example, if a custody dispute is centered around a teenager, his or her preferences sometimes play an important role in how a court decides to award custody.
Courts take many factors into consideration with respect to making custody decisions that serve a child’s best interests. The preferences of a child is one such factor and when a child is older, their ability to make these important decisions is often given more credence. However, the judge will likely review the child’s rationale and their ability to make sound decisions that protect their interests. Unfortunately, child custody issues are tricky for many families, especially when teens are involved.
Sometimes, a teen wrongly places blame on one parent. For example, they accuse their mother or father of causing a marriage to crumble even though they are overlooking other aspects of their parents’ relationship and decision to divorce. As a result, some decide they want nothing to do with their other parent, even though their parent loves them very much and works hard to support them. We understand how emotional and complicated custody matters are and discuss other issues about the custody process on our website. Regardless of the challenges you are facing, understand your rights and try to stay positive.