When determining the best interests of a child in an Idaho divorce proceeding  the court considers the following factors in making its determination of the custody arrangement that will be the best for the children:

(a)  The wishes of the child’s parent or parents as to his or her custody;
(b)  The wishes of the child as to his or her custodian;
(c)  The interaction and interrelationship of the child with his or her parent or parents, and his or her siblings;
(d)  The child’s adjustment to his or her home, school, and community;
(e)  The character and circumstances of all individuals involved;
(f)  The need to promote continuity and stability in the life of the child; and
(g)  Domestic violence whether or not in the presence of the child

Courts also will take into consideration any drug or alcohol use/abuse in making a determination.

Often, when there is a dispute over custody, the court will order that a custody evaluator be retained to examine the custody situation and issue a report and recommendation as to what they believe is the child's best interests.

If you are currently having a custody dispute or are in need of an Idaho Child Custody Lawyer contact Snake River Law PLLC at (208)406-9885. If you mention this blog, you will get your Child Custody Strategy Session for FREE (a $400.00 value).