Q: My ex wants to bring the kids in on custody to ask what they want in front of the judge - can I fight this?
A:
That will depend on the ages of the children. If the children are too young, they will not be allowed to be involved. Under New Jersey state law, it is assumed that regular contact with both parents is in the best interests of the child, though certain circumstances can change that. However, there are other factors that go into determining a child’s best interests and which custody arrangement can best serve those interests.
These factors include:
Your child’s relationship with each parent
The parents’ willingness and ability to communicate with each other
Stability of both parents
Any history of domestic violence
The child’s preference
Practical considerations (such as distance between the homes, distance between the homes and the child’s school and related issues) This is obviously not an exhaustive list. Child custody statutes are complicated.
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