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Factors that a court uses to determine child custody in Oklahoma

On Behalf of | Apr 25, 2022 | Child Custody, Child Support

With one of the highest marriage rates in the country, it is little wonder that Oklahoma also has a relatively high divorce rate. It has the second-highest divorce rate in the country. Many of these divorces involve children.

When you divorce, you may want custody of your children. There are a few very important factors that courts consider in a custody proceeding.

Parent’s stability

The courts consider how stable you are. There are a few factors that they look at when determining stability:

  • Financial
  • Home
  • Work
  • Extended family
  • Support network

A court will almost always decide custody in favor of the parent with more stability in each area.

Parent’s mental and physical health

If one parent is physically or mentally unwell, this can cause problems with custody. You need to be able to be there for your children and the healthiest, most able-bodied parent is usually chosen.

Parent’s criminal history

A judge will look at your criminal history. If you have a conviction for a child-related crime, drug offense or violent crime, that is grounds for denial of custody. Although there is a chance for custody when you have a conviction on your record, it is a small one.

Parent’s ability to nurture the child

A parent should be able to provide a nurturing environment and nurture the relationship with the noncustodial parent. If the judge feels that you can not, they might not grant you custody.

Child’s wishes

The child’s wishes are always a consideration. Whether the judge grants custody depends on the child’s age and maturity.

A judge will look at all of these factors and more before he or she grants custody.