One of the concerns parents in Nebraska might have when they are petitioning for child custody is often how their income might impact the outcome of the case. While finances do play a role in child custody decisions, there are also many other factors that are considered before a decision is made.
What role do finances play in child custody cases?
Child custody is always decided on the basis of the best interests of the child. As such, a parent’s finances can play a role since parents will need to provide a suitable living environment for the child and to cover their needs. However, even when a parent earns less than the other or had previously been the stay-at-home parent for the child, that parent could still receive custody of the child. In those cases, the parent might also receive child support and spousal support.
What other factors are considered besides finances?
Besides financial factors, there are other factors courts consider when deciding child custody cases. These include:
- Each parent’s mental and physical health
- The bond between the child and each parent
- The home environment each parent can provide
- Any history of alcohol or drug abuse by a parent
- Any history of domestic violence, neglect or abuse by a parent
- Educational and childcare options
- Which parent the child prefers to live with
How do finances affect child custody cases indirectly?
Finances can affect the way a parent prepares for the case. Parents with a stronger financial situation might have more money to spend on legal representation and might be more willing to continue with a contentious case.
Finances will not impact the final decision of the court as all the other factors would be considered. They will play a role in the way courts decide child custody, but only as far as how they would affect the care and stability of the child.
