Best Interest of the Child in Connecticut Custody Cases: What Judges Consider

In this episode of Irretrievable Breakdown: All Things Divorce, Matt Dolan and Nicole Bikakis of Dolan Divorce Lawyers, PLLC explain what “best interest of the child” means in a Connecticut divorce or custody case.When Connecticut judges decide legal custody, physical custody, parenting time, or custody modifications, they use the best interest of the child standard. Matt and Nicole discuss how courts may evaluate a child’s physical and emotional safety, developmental needs, relationship with each parent, sibling relationships, school and community stability, each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs, and each parent’s willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent.This episode also explains the difference between legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody involves major decisions about a child’s health care, education, religion, and general welfare. Physical custody involves the parenting schedule and where the child lives. Matt and Nicole discuss how Connecticut courts may approach both issues when parents cannot reach an agreement.Listeners will also learn why a child’s preference may matter, especially as the child gets older and more mature, but why children do not simply get to decide custody. The episode also covers the role of a Guardian ad Litem, family relations evaluations, custody agreements, court orders, contempt issues, and why keeping children out of parental conflict is so important.Whether you are going through a Connecticut divorce, custody dispute, parenting plan negotiation, or post-judgment custody modification, this episode offers practical insight into what judges may consider when deciding what is in a child’s best interest.Learn more about Dolan Divorce Lawyers, PLLC:Website: https://dolanfamilylaw.com/Contact: https://dolanfamilylaw.com/contact-us/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dolandivorcelawyerspllc7203Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dolanfamilylaw/Email: [email protected]: 203-902-8395This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not create an attorney-client relationship. For advice about your specific situation, contact a qualified family law attorney.