If you are trying to get custody of your child or children, you might be worried if you have less money than the other spouse. After all, isn’t financial stability a big factor in these kinds of decisions? It is, but it is hardly the only element that will be considered by the court. A Tazewell County child custody lawyer can help you make a compelling case for custody even if your former spouse has more resources at their disposal.
Is Financial Stability a Factor in Custody Decisions?
Of course, the court is going to want to place children in homes that are financially stable. They do not want a child dealing with difficult housing arrangements that can cause stress. If one parent is often on the verge of homelessness, for example, then that may affect whether or not they are granted physical custody at all.
What Else Can Be Considered in Custody Decisions?
Financial resources are important, but the key consideration here is always going to be the best interests of a child. That means that the court can also look at factors like:
- The relationship between the child and each parent
- How much quality time a parent spends with their child
- How safe the child is with each parent
- The job expectations of each parent
- Crimes committed by either parent
The court can also consider how the finances of a household affect it in other ways. For example, you make less than your ex but they work 10 to 20 hours per week more than you do at a more demanding job. Your ability to spend more time with your child due to your former spouse’s work obligations could work in your favor, even if it seems like the richer parent would offer more financial stability.
Can Alimony and Child Support Help With Financial Stability?
What you also have to remember is that the parent with less money is also likely to receive child support and alimony. This can even the scales a bit, giving both parents a similar degree of financial stability. As long as a parent is not on the edge of homelessness, their finances are unlikely to be the main reason they are or are not granted custody.
Should I Hire a Lawyer?
If you are serious about fighting for a favorable custody arrangement, you should consider talking to an attorney. We can advocate on your behalf and make some convincing arguments about your home and why your child should be allowed to stay there a majority of the time or at least visit.
Schedule a Consultation Today
So if you are going through a divorce, make sure that you have someone advocating on your behalf. Contact Butler, Giraudo & Meister, P.C. and schedule a consultation with our legal team. We can tell you more about what our attorneys can do to assist you.
