A parent’s behavior can affect how much parenting time they have with their child. Kentucky courts look at the child’s best interests when deciding custody and parenting time, which can make certain conduct especially important in a custody case. Here are three to know.
Exposing your child to violence or abuse
Kentucky courts consider domestic violence, abuse and neglect when deciding what custody arrangement serves a child’s best interests. That can include situations where your child sees violence at home or lives with someone who is being abusive, even if you are not the person abusing your child.
Repeatedly ignoring custody or parenting-time orders
Ignoring the schedule repeatedly can lead to problems with the court. For example, refusing to return your child on time or keeping your child during the other parent’s scheduled time can violate a custody order. If this keeps happening, the court may change the existing parenting arrangement.
Putting your child in unsafe situations
Kentucky courts can consider behavior that puts your child’s safety or well-being at risk. This may include substance abuse, serious criminal conduct or other situations that could put your child in danger. If the court believes the situation creates an ongoing safety concern, it may change the current parenting arrangement.
Know when to look closer
If your parenting time is at risk, do not wait until the situation gets worse before addressing it. A family law attorney can review the circumstances, explain how Kentucky law may apply and help you understand whether your current custody arrangement could change. Getting legal advice early can help you respond before the issue becomes a larger custody dispute.