When it comes to child custody battles, judges often consider what is in the best interest of the child. This can be done through a variety of methods including evaluating each parent’s financial situation to considering input from family experts. In some situations, a judge may even consider what the child wants as well.
But what happens when conflicts between these deciding factors occur? What is the best way of determining child custody? We bring up these questions because of a recent child custody case that would present any family law judge with a challenge. That’s because all of the deciding factors in the case have valid points, but in the end, the courts must decide what is best for the child and rule accordingly.
Some of our Carlsbad readers who are also fans of the television show “The Real Housewives” may have heard about the custody battle between Tamra Barney and ex-husband Simon Barney. Although Simon has filed for sole custody of the couple’s three children, Tamra recently cited on her Facebook page research that suggests cutting her out of her children’s lives in this way would create problems down the road. Although many family experts agree that joint custody is often better for proper child development, this might not be enough for a judge to rule in Tamra’s favor.
That’s because, according to the custody filing, Tamra is neglectful of her children and failed to provide them with nutritional meals, hygienic care, and even prompt medical attention. This accusation has been further substantiated by a statement given by the couple’s 15-year-old daughter, which accuses her mother of being “verbally and emotionally abusive.”
As we said above, there are a lot of deciding factors in this case, but only one that matters: what is best for the children? In the end, despite Tamra’s Facebook posts on the matter, awarding sole custody to Simon might be the best choice. Only time will tell though if this is the case.
Source: Radar Online, “Tamra Barney Battles Ex-Husband’s ‘Vengeful’ Child Custody Filing, Claims Their Kids ‘Will Develop Best’ If She Stays In Their Lives,” Amber Ryland, April 28, 2014
