Legal Question in Family Law in Arizona

Husband is trying for full custody of our children

He and I have joint custody right now. We both have lived in Apartments for two years. His lease is up now and is renting a three bedroom home and my lease is not up til the end of this year. He is now requesting a hearing to get full legal custody of our children. I wondered how a judge looks at this sort of request, is there things he specifically will look for? What kinds of things weigh his decision? I am really scared and worried.


Asked on 7/20/09, 7:39 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Grady Wade Wade Law Firm, PLC

Re: Husband is trying for full custody of our children

That you live is an apartment does not necessarily mean he should get full custody, especially if the children have enough room and a lot of people do not live there.

A.R.S 25-403 establishes what a judge must consider when granting custody.

A.R.S. 25-403:

A. The court shall determine custody, either originally or on petition for modification, in accordance with the best interests of the child. The court shall consider all relevant factors, including:

1. The wishes of the child's parent or parents as to custody.

2. The wishes of the child as to the custodian.

3. The interaction and interrelationship of the child with the child's parent or parents, the child's siblings and any other person who may significantly affect the child's best interest.

4. The child's adjustment to home, school and community.

5. The mental and physical health of all individuals involved.

6. Which parent is more likely to allow the child frequent and meaningful continuing contact with the other parent.

7. Whether one parent, both parents or neither parent has provided primary care of the child.

8. The nature and extent of coercion or duress used by a parent in obtaining an agreement regarding custody.

9. Whether a parent has complied with chapter 3, article 5 of this title.

10. Whether either parent was convicted of an act of false reporting of child abuse or neglect under section 13-2907.02.

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Answered on 7/20/09, 9:23 pm


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