How Living Accommodations Affect Child Custody in Colorado

Are you a parent hoping to gain physical custody of your child? One of the things you can do to earn the court’s favor is to prepare your living accommodations with your child in mind. Your residence and home life are among the primary things that the judge will consider, so you want to show them that your accommodations are well-suited for your child. Here are some of the home environment concerns you must consider in your child custody case.

Is there appropriate space for your child’s age and gender?

This is a crucial question especially if your child is a different gender than you. The court will prefer to see that your son or daughter has a separate bedroom and dressing quarters in the future home. In addition, a child will need more personal space as they grow older. If your child is a teenager or approaching that age, understand that it may not suit them to share a bedroom with a parent or another sibling.

If you have multiple children at home, is there adequate space for them?

There should be enough space in your home for all your children to sleep well, study, and play. While the judge would not require you to have an expansive mansion just to accommodate your kids, it would not look good if, for example, one child has to sleep on the couch or on the floor.

To help make your house more conducive for multiple children, you can come up with strategic ways to delineate spaces for various kids’ activities. For instance, you can assign a quiet corner as their study space, away from the yard or family room that they use as a play space.

Is your home drastically different from what the child is used to?

The court will consider the adjustments that your child would have to make, and if the child is mature enough to adjust well. For example, if a small child is used to a large home where he can run about, it may not be best for him to suddenly be placed in a small apartment.

Is the surrounding neighborhood child-friendly?

A judge may also look at the immediate vicinity outside your home. Are the roads safe for pedestrians, or is it a high-traffic, accident-prone area? Are your neighbors friendly to children? Are there schools, hospitals, and parks that are accessible?

Would the child be safe in your environment?

In relation to the child-friendliness of your neighborhood, the court will want to ensure the safety of your child. The judge may look at the crime rate in your area, or if there are registered sex offenders living nearby. Your house itself should be safe, with adequate security and structural stability.

Do you have specific home issues that need to be ironed out?

You’ll want to resolve any housing issues that might affect your child’s situation in your home. A judge would not look favorably on missed rental payments or disconnection notices from utility companies. Make sure all your bills are paid and that any home dispute is resolved.

Living accommodations are an important factor in child custody decisions. It may be daunting if your child’s other parent has a better home or more financial capacity than you, but you can still fight to show the court why your child would be best raised by you. Talk to us at Goldman Law to see how to do this. We are experienced in Colorado Family Law, and are ready to provide you with competent legal advice.