New Jersey courts take child custody very seriously. In some cases, a parent may be deemed unfit and he or she will lose custody. This can be extremely difficult for parents and children alike. If you have lost custody, you may be wondering about your options and the steps you must take in order to regain custody– read on to learn more.
How is child custody determined in New Jersey?
When a judge makes a custody decision, he or she is working to do what is in the child’s best interest. To make this decision, he or she may consider some of the following factors:
- The needs of the child
- The relationship between the child and the parents
- Each party’s ability to provide stability
- The location and proximity of each parent’s home
- The physical health and safety of the child
- Whether the parent will act in the child’s best interests
- The preference of the child if they are of the sufficient age
Why do parents lose custody?
For the most part, New Jersey courts believe that a child benefits from having a relationship with both parents. But, in some cases, a parent will be deemed unfit and he or she will lose custody. Some of the most common reasons for this include evidence of:
- Substance abuse
- Refusal to co-parent
- Abuse
- Neglect
Can I win child custody back?
Losing custody can be devasting, but it does not mean that this decision has to be permanent. When you lose custody, it is always for a reason. Addressing the issue that caused you to lose custody and fixing it can mean regaining custody down the line. For example, if you have lost custody due to a substance abuse issue, you may need to partake in a program and show proof of your sobriety. When it comes to regaining custody, it is important to carefully follow court orders. Additionally, you should work with an experienced family law attorney who can help you through the process.
If you have lost custody, our firm is here to help. Reach out to our firm to speak with a skilled and dedicated family law attorney about your options as soon as possible.
Contact our experienced New Jersey firm
If you require strong legal representation for matters related to divorce or family law, Haber Silver Russoniello & Dunn is here to help. We proudly represent clients in Morris County and throughout the state of New Jersey. Contact our firm today to schedule a consultation.
