How Do Texas Judges Determine the Best Interest of the Child?

How does the court determine what is in the child’s best interest?

There are factors in the Texas Family Code which help judges make the decision as to what is in the best interest of a child. Here are some of the things a judge may consider when ruling what is best for a child:

• The emotional and physical danger to the child now and in the future
• The child’s emotional and physical needs, now and in the future.
• The parenting abilities of the individuals seeking custody.
• The desires of the child.
• The programs available to assist parents in promoting the best interests of the child.
• The plans for the child.
• The stability of the home.
• The suitability of the existing parent-child relationship – through previous acts or omissions.
• Any excuse for such acts or omissions of the parent.

Also, “Best interest” is simply another way of saying “what is best for the child.”

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